Defective Bismuth Oxide as Effective Adsorbent for Arsenic Removal from Water and Wastewater.

Ramona Balint,Alberto Tagliaferro,Massimo Rovere,Maria Martin,Abdul Memon,Pravin Jagdale,Mattia Bartoli

doi:10.3390/toxics9070158

Abstract

In this work, we report solid-state synthetized defective Bi2O3 containing Bi(V) sites as effective and recyclable arsenic adsorbent materials. Bi2O3 was extensively characterized, and structure-related adsorption processes are reported. Both As(V) and As(III) species-adsorption processes were investigated in a wide range of concentrations, pH values, and times. The effect of several competing ions was also tested together with the adsorbent recyclability.

Highlights

Water shortage is one of the most concerning threats envisaged for the future, given the growing population and the changing climate [1]
Solid-state synthesis is a well-established method to produce size-controlled materials using a mixture of several precursors [34]
Bi2O3 was synthesized by a solid-state reaction method that induced the formation of Bi(V) surface modifications in the defective structure of a highly reactive material

Summary

Introduction

Water shortage is one of the most concerning threats envisaged for the future, given the growing population and the changing climate [1]. Enhancing the availability of clean water by efficiently removing natural or anthropic contaminants is of paramount importance. Wastewater management is another essential link in reducing the degradation of the environment and improving the sustainability of productive systems [2]. Among PTE, arsenic is one of the most diffused and dangerous contaminants [7], with varying toxicity levels according to its chemical speciation. Arsenite is more toxic and more mobile in the environment than arsenate [9], which poses further challenges for its removal from water compared to arsenate, requiring, e.g., preliminary oxidation steps in water treatment plants. High levels of As (above 10 μg L−1) in groundwater used for drinking and irrigation are not infrequent in southeast Asia, where endemic As poisoning has caused long-term health effects and a public health emergency [5,6,7]

Methods

Results

Conclusion