Abstract
The performance of limestone and anthracite coal were evaluated for the removal of pollutants from groundwater. The physical and chemical properties of two filter materials were characterised through X-Ray diffraction (XRD), X-Ray fluorescence (XRF), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). XRD analysis showed that the main peaks of calcite (CaCO3) are the predominant phase of limestone, whereas quartz and graphite are the crystalline phase of anthracite coal. The presence of calcium oxide (CaO) as the major composition indicated that limestone demonstrates a good ability for cation exchange. FTIR spectrum analysis showed that the functional groups present on the limestone surface are mostly hydrophilic groups, and anthracite exhibits hydrophobic characteristic. Limestone has the potential to adsorb heavy metal pollutants, whereas anthracite has the capability to adsorb organic pollutants. Therefore, the two filter materials can be used as alternatives to remove pollutants in treating groundwater.
Highlights
A filter material is a porous material placed in a filter column that separates the liquid and suspended particles and changes the water quality after flowing through the media
Sand [1], gravel, anthracite coal [2] and granular activated carbon [3] are the filter media commonly used in drinking water treatment plants (WTPs)
Previous studies have proven that the utilisation of raw limestone as filter material is effective in removing heavy metals [5]-[9]
Summary
A filter material is a porous material placed in a filter column that separates the liquid and suspended particles and changes the water quality after flowing through the media. Sand [1], gravel, anthracite coal [2] and granular activated carbon [3] are the filter media commonly used in drinking water treatment plants (WTPs). Chaudhry et al, (2016) indicated that sand can remove heavy metals by coating the sand with Fe and Mn oxide [4]. Previous studies have proven that the utilisation of raw limestone as filter material is effective in removing heavy metals [5]-[9]. The major portion of groundwater around Kelantan contains high concentration of Fe, which is above Malaysia Drinking Water Quality Standard [11]. Anthracite coal was imported from the United Kingdom, placed on the top layer of sand filter and traps large particles when the water comes in contact with the media during filtration. Limestone and anthracite were selected as alternative filter materials in a WTP
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