Document Type : Original Article
Authors
1
Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
2
Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Zagazig University, Zagazig, 44519, Egypt.
3
Nuclear Materials Authority, El Maadi, Cairo P.O. Box 530, Egypt.
4
Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Zagazig University, Zagazig, 44519, Egypt
Abstract
Industrialization and human activities have significantly contributed to the contamination of water resources with heavy metals, including mercury, lead, cadmium, nickel, and arsenic, which pose severe environmental and human health risks. These metals are persistent, non-biodegradable, and bio-accumulative, leading to long-term ecological damage and chronic health issues, such as organ failure and neurological impairments. Traditional wastewater treatment methods, such as chemical precipitation, ion exchange, and membrane filtration, face challenges in efficiently removing heavy metals from industrial effluents. In response, advanced techniques like adsorption, which offers cost-effectiveness, simplicity, and versatility, have gained attention. This review explores various methods for heavy metal removal from wastewater, focusing on adsorption, chemical precipitation with chelating agents, and ion exchange. The role of natural zeolites as adsorbents, their ion-exchange properties, and the potential for enhancing their performance through modifications are also discussed. While these methods show promise, challenges remain in optimizing their selectivity, regeneration, and cost-effectiveness for large-scale applications. Further research is crucial for developing sustainable solutions to mitigate heavy metal pollution and ensure the protection of water resources and public health.
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