Researchers develop adsorbent capable of collecting chromate from waste water

By Park Sae-jin Posted : October 15, 2018, 17:00 Updated : October 15, 2018, 17:14

[Courtesy of the Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST)]


SEOUL -- South Korean researchers have developed an adsorbent capable of absorbing chromate, a compound of toxic cancer-inducing substances. It is more effective than a conventional water purification process.

Chromate includes chromium (Cr3) and hexavalent chromium (Cr6), which are used to produce paint, plastic and stainless steel products. Because of structural characteristics, it damages kidneys, liver and blood cells when consumed or inhaled. Chromate is also highly carcinogenic and is very commonly found in wastewater.

The Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), a state-funded body, said in a statement on Monday that its researchers developed technology on the production of a strong chromate-adsorbent based on pyrrolic nitrogen structure, an interlinked network of the ring-shaped organic structure.

The researches coated carbon black, a material produced by the incomplete combustion of heavy petroleum products, with the pyrrolic nitrogen substance. The adsorbent collects chromium and hexavalent chromium through chemical reactions.

The new water-clearing method is more efficient than the previous time-consuming method which condensed the level of toxic waste by evaporating water. KIST said the new method would contribute to the development of a low-cost wastewater purification system.
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