Evaluation of an Organoclay, an Organoclay-Anthracite Blend, Clinoptilolite, and Hydroxy-Apatite as Sorbents for Heavy Metal Removal from Water

摘要

Heavy-metal laden effluents from industrial activities such as manufacturing and mining have caused widespread contamination of soil and water resources. Combined heavy metal and organic contamination may also leach from containment facilities such aslandfills or other surface impoundments (Li and Li 2001). Traditional sorbent materials for treating aqueous heavy-metal contamination such as activated carbon and ion-exchange resins are effective, but have high capital and re-generation costs (Banat et al. 2002). Consequently, a need exists to identify low-cost, natural sorbents to treat water contaminated with heavy metals.