Showing papers by "Bhekie B. Mamba published in 2012"

Removal of Escherichia coli and Faecal Coliforms from Surface Water and Groundwater by Household Water Treatment Devices/Systems: A Sustainable Solution for Improving Water Quality in Rural Communities of the Southern African Development Community Region

Abstract: There is significant evidence that household water treatment devices/systems (HWTS) are capable of dramatically improving microbially contaminated water quality. The purpose of this study was to examine five filters [(biosand filter-standard (BSF-S); biosand filter-zeolite (BSF-Z); bucket filter (BF); ceramic candle filter (CCF); and silver-impregnated porous pot (SIPP)] and evaluate their ability to improve the quality of drinking water at the household level. These HWTS were manufactured in the workshop of the Tshwane University of Technology and evaluated for efficiency to remove turbidity, faecal coliforms and Escherichia coli from multiple water source samples, using standard methods. The flow rates ranged from 0.05 L/h to 2.49 L/h for SIPP, 1 L/h to 4 L/h for CCF, 0.81 L/h to 6.84 L/h for BSF-S, 1.74 L/h to 19.2 L/h and 106.5 L/h to 160.5 L/h for BF The turbidity of the raw water samples ranged between 2.17 and 40.4 NTU. The average turbidity obtained after filtration ranged from 0.6 to 8 NTU (BSF-S), 1 to 4 NTU (BSF-Z), 2 to 11 NTU (BF), and from 0.6 to 7 NTU (CCF) and 0.7 to 1 NTU for SIPP. The BSF-S, BSF-Z and CCF removed 2 to 4 log10 (99% to 100%) of coliform bacteria, while the BF removed 1 to 3 log (90% to 99.9%) of these bacteria. The performance of the SIPP in removing turbidity and indicator bacteria (>5 log10, 100%) was significantly higher compared to that of the other HWTS (p < 0.05). The findings of this study indicate that the SIPP can be an effective and sustainable HWTS for the Southern African Development Community (SADC) rural communities, as it removed the total concentration of bacteria from test water, can be manufactured using locally available materials, and is easy to operate and to maintain.

Layer-by-layer self-assembled metal-ion- (Ag-, Co-, Ni-, and Pd-) doped TiO 2 nanoparticles: synthesis, characterisation, and visible light degradation of Rhodamine B

Abstract: Metal-ion- (Ag, Co, Ni and Pd) doped titania nanocatalysts were successfully deposited on glass slides by layer-by-layer (LbL) selfassembly technique using a poly(styrene sulfonate sodium salt) (PSS) and poly(allylamine hydrochloride) (PAH) polyelectrolyte system. Solid diffuse reflectance (SDR) studies showed a linear increase in absorbance at 416 nm with increase in the number of m-TiO 2 thin films. The LbL assembled thin films were tested for their photocatalytic activity through the degradation of Rhodamine B under visible-light illumination. From the scanning electron microscope (SEM), the thin films had a porous morphology and the atomic force microscope (AFM) studies showed "rough" surfaces. The porous and rough surface morphology resulted in high surface areas hence the high photocatalytic degradation (up to 97% over a 6.5 h irradiation period) using visible-light observed. Increasing the number of multilayers deposited on the glass slides resulted in increased film thickness and an increased rate of photodegradation due to increase in the availability of more nanocatalysts (more sites for photodegradation). The LbL assembled thin films had strong adhesion properties which made them highly stable thus displaying the same efficiencies after five (5) reusability cycles.

Electrochemical Detection of Bisphenol A Using Graphene-Modified Glassy Carbon Electrode

Abstract: Graphene's nano-dimensional nature and excellent electron transfer properties underlie its electrocatalytic behavior towards certain substances. In this light, we have used graphene in the electrochemical detection of bisphenol A. Graphene sheets were produced via soft chemistry route involving graphite oxidation and chemical reduction. X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infra-red (FT-IR) and Raman spectroscopy were used for the characterization of the as-synthesized graphene. Graphene exhibited amorphous structure in comparison with pristine graphite from XRD spectra. FTIR showed that graphene exhibits OH and COOH groups due to incomplete reduction. Raman spectroscopy revealed that multi-layered graphene was produced due to low intensity of the 2D-peak. Glassy carbon electrode was modified with graphene by a simple drop and dry method. Cyclic voltammetry was used to study the electrochemical properties of the prepared graphene-modified glassy carbon electrode using potassium ferricyanide as a redox probe. The prepared graphene- modified glassy carbon electrode exhibited more facile electron kinetics and enhanced current of about 75% when compared to the unmodified glassy carbon electrode. The modified electrode was used for the detection of bisphenol A. Under the optimum conditions, the oxidation peak current of bisphenol A varied linearly with concentration over a wide range of 5 x 10(-8) mol L-1 to 1 x 10(-6) mol L-1 and the detection limit of this method was as low as 4.689 x 10(-8) M. This method was also employed to determine bisphenol A in a real sample

Multiwalled carbon nanotubes decorated with nitrogen, palladium co-doped TiO 2 (MWCNT/N, Pd co-doped TiO 2 ) for visible light photocatalytic degradation of Eosin Yellow in water

Abstract: Multiwalled carbon nanotube (MWCNT/N), Pd co-doped TiO2 nanocomposites were prepared by calcining the hydrolysis products of the reaction of titanium isopropoxide, Ti(OC3H7)4 containing multiwalled carbon nanotubes with aqueous ammonia. The prepared samples were characterised by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, diffuse reflectance UV–Vis spectrophotometry (DRUV–Vis), XRD, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). DRUV–Vis analysis confirmed the red shift in the absorption edge at lower MWCNT percentages. SEM and TEM images showed the complete coverage of the MWCNTs with clusters of anatase TiO2 at low MWCNT percentages. Higher MWCNT levels led to their aggregation and consequently poor coverage by N, Pd co-doped TiO2. The photocatalytic activities of the nanocomposites were monitored by photodegradation of Eosin Yellow under simulated solar and visible light irradiation (λ > 450 nm). Irradiation with simulated solar radiation gave higher dye-degradation rates compared to visible radiation. The optimum MWCNT weight percentage in the composites was found to be 0.5. High degradation-rate constants of 3.42 × 10−2 and 5.18 × 10−3 min−1 were realised for the 0.5% MWCNT/N, Pd co-doped TiO2 composite, using simulated solar light and visible light, respectively.

An Exfoliated Graphite-Based Bisphenol A Electrochemical Sensor

Abstract: The use of an exfoliated graphite (EG) electrode in the square wave voltammetric detection of bisphenol A (a model phenolic pollutant) in water, whereby the phenolic electrode fouling challenge is mitigated, is described. The oxidation peak of BPA was observed at about 0.45 V in phosphate buffer solution at pH 10. The current response exhibited a linear relationship with the concentration over a range from 1.56 µM–50 µM. The detection limit was calculated to be 0.76 µM. The EG electrode surface was renewed after each measurement with excellent repr oducibility. A real sample application was also investigated. Keywords: exfoliated graphite electrode; bisphenol A; phenol; electrode fouling; pollutant 1. Introduction A huge number of industrial processes involve the use and/or production of phenolic compounds. For example, bisphenol A (BPA) is widely used as a monomer and additive in the production of plastics, resins and coatings which are extensively used in food-packaging and dentistry [1]. Most phenolic compounds are toxic and hence constitute pollutants in water, food, soil and the environment at large. As regards toxicity, BPA has been identified recently as an emerging environmental pollutant owing to its endocrine disrupting activities [2,3]. Endocrine disrupting compounds are organic compounds that can cause negative effects on the endocrine systems of humans and wildlife. The

Potential application of activated carbon from maize tassel for the removal of heavy metals in water

Abstract: Water-pollution problems worldwide have led to an acute shortage of clean and pure water for both domestic and human consumption. Various technologies and techniques are available for water treatment which includes the use of activated carbon. In this study activated carbons used for the removal of lead (II) ions from water samples were prepared from maize tassels (an agricultural waste residue) which were modified using physical and chemical activation. In the physical activation CO2 was used as the activating agent, while in chemical activation H3PO4 with an impregnation ratio ranging from 1 to 4 was employed. The maize tassel was pyrolysed at different temperatures ranging from 300 °C to 700 °C in an inert atmosphere for a period of 60 min and activated at 700 °C for 30 min. The effects of activation temperature, impregnation ratio and duration were examined. The resultant modified tassels were characterised by measuring their particle-size distribution, porosities, pore volume, and pore-size distribution using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The activated carbon produced by chemical activation had the highest BET surface area ranging from 623 m2 g−1 to 1 262 m2 g−1. The surface chemistry characteristics of the modified tassels were determined by FT–IR spectroscopy and Boehm’s titration method. The experimental data proved that properties of activated carbon depend on final temperature of the process, impregnation ratio and duration of the treatment at final temperature. The adsorption studies showed that chemically prepared activated carbon performed better than physically prepared activated carbon.

Quantitative Variations of Intracellular Microcystin-LR, -RR and -YR in Samples Collected from Four Locations in Hartbeespoort Dam in North West Province (South Africa) During the 2010/2011 Summer Season

Abstract: The Hartbeespoort (HBP) Dam is a reservoir used for agricultural, domestic supply of raw potable water and recreational activities in South Africa’s North-West Province. Eutrophication and cyanobacterial blooms have long been a cause of water-quality problems in this reservoir. The most prevalent bloom-forming species is Microcystis aeruginosa, often producing the toxin microcystin, a hepatotoxin which can negatively impact aquatic animal and human health, and poses a problem for potable water supply. Algal samples were collected monthly from four pre-determined sites in the dam during the summer months (December 2010–March 2011). Intracellular microcystins (MCs) were extracted using SPE C18 cartridges, followed by separation, identification and quantification using LC-ESI-MS techniques. Quantitative variation studies of MCs were conducted with respect to MC congener isolated, sampling site and month. Three main MC congeners (MC-RR, -LR and-YR) were isolated, identified and quantified. In addition, three minor MCs (MC-WR, MC-(H4)YR and (D-Asp3, Dha7)MC-RR were also identified, but were not quantified. The MC dominance followed the order MC-RR>MC-LR>MC-YR across all sites and time. The maximum and minimum concentrations were 268 µg/g and 0.14 µg/g DW for MC-RR and MC-YR, respectively, of the total MCs quantified from this study. One-way ANOVA showed that there were no significant differences between average MC concentrations recorded across months (P = 0.62), there was, however, a marginally-significant difference in concentrations among MC congeners (P = 0.06). ANCOVA revealed a highly significant interaction between sites and MC congeners on MC concentration (P < 0.001).

Comparison of rhodamine B degradation under UV irradiation by two phases of titania nano-photocatalyst

Abstract: Titania (TiO2) nano-photocatalysts, with different phases, prepared using a modified sol-gel process were employed in the degradation of rhodamine at 10 mg L-1 concentration. The degradation efficiency of these nano-photocatalysts was compared to that of commercial Degussa P25 titania. It was found that the nanocatalysts calcined at 450 degrees C and the Degussa P25 titania had similar photoreactivity profiles. The commercial Degussa P25 nanocatalysts had an overall high apparent rate constant of (K-app) of 0.023 min(-1). The other nanocatalyst had the following rate constants: 0.017, 0.0089, 0.003 and 0.0024 min(-1) for 450, 500, 550 and 600 degrees C calcined catalysts, respectively. This could be attributed to the phase of the titania as the anatase phase is highly photoactive than the other phases. Furthermore, characterisation by differential scanning calorimetry showed the transformation of titania from amorphous to anatase and finally to rutile phase. SEM and TEM characterisations were used to study the surface morphology and internal structure of the nanoparticles. BET results show that as the temperature of calcinations was raised, the surface area reduced marginally. X-ray diffraction was used to confirm the different phases of titania. This study has led to a conclusion that the anatase phase of the titania is the most photoactive nanocatalyst. It also had the highest apparent rate constant of 0.017 min(-1), which is similar to that of the commercial titania.

Humic acid as a model for natural organic matter (NOM) in the removal of odorants from water by cyclodextrin polyurethanes.

Abstract: Current practices in some water-treatment facilities have reported that natural organic matter (NOM) blocks the adsorption sites of activated carbon resulting in lower geosmin and 2-methylisoborneol (2-MIB) removal. Humic acid has been reported to compete with geosmin and 2-MIB removal in the same way. The removal of odour chemicals such as geosmin and 2-MIB is important for potable-water treatment by water supply companies and municipalities. We have previously demonstrated that cyclodextrin polyurethanes are capable of removing a number of organic pollutants from water, but are not able to reduce the levels of NOM significantly. We wished to determine if the polymers would selectively remove geosmin and 2-MIB, despite the presence of NOM. Humic acid was chosen as a model for NOM since NOM constitutes about 70% of humic acid. Results obtained from this study indicate that the presence of humic acids at different concentrations could not affect the removal of geosmin and 2-MIB when cyclodextrin polymers were used since 90% removal was achieved. However the UV-Vis analysis showed a low removal of humic acids (3 to 20%).

Removal of copper and cobalt from aqueous solutions using natural clinoptilolite

Abstract: Southern African clinoptilolite capability as an ion-exchanger with respect to Cu2+ and Co2+ was investigated in order to consider its possible application at removing metals from aqueous solutions. The column method was used in the cation-exchange processes with synthetic solution concentrations of 0.07 M (3.86 g/.), 0.33 M (19.31 g/.) and 0.66 M (38.63 g/.) of Cu2+ solution and 0.07 M (3.34 g/.), 0.33 M (16.69 g/.) and 0.66 M (33.37 g/.) of Co2+ solution. Synthetic non-mixed sulphate solutions of copper and cobalt recorded maximum cation uptakes of 79% and 63% with 0.02 M HCl-activated clinoptilolite respectively. From the Cu/Co mixed solutions, both cobalt and copper recorded a 79% uptake with 0.02 M HCl-activation. The 0.04 M HCl activation gave percentage removals of 79% and 77% for Co2+ and Cu2+ respectively. In the ion-exchange evaluation part of the study, it was found that in every concentration range, the adsorption mass ratio of clinoptilolite to metal concentration conformed to both Langmuir and Freundlich adsorption isotherms. However, the non-mixed aqueous solutions of Cu2+ and Co2+ fitted mainly the Langmuir equation. It was found that the adsorption process depends on the hydrated radius of the cation being exchanged, the concentration of the acid that activates the clinoptilolite and the concentration of the targeted cation in solution.

Monitoring natural organic matter and disinfection by-products at different stages in two South African water treatment plants

Abstract: Natural organic matter (NOM) is a complex organic material present in natural surface water. NOM can cause problems during water treatment . most notably the formation of toxic disinfection by-products. This study was undertaken in order to assess the effectiveness of some of the water treatment techniques employed by selected water supply companies in South Africa in dealing with NOM. Total organic carbon (TOC) and ultra violet (UV) absorbance at wavelength of 254 nm were measured and used to calculate specific ultra violet absorbance (SUVA), which was used to determine the changes in NOM concentration throughout the water treatment train. Other parameters measured include pH, turbidity, chemical oxygen demand (COD) and conductivity. Water samples were collected from two water treatment plants in South Africa, namely Sedibeng (Balkfontein) and Midvaal. The overall TOC reduction after the water treatment processes was 33% and 30% at Midvaal and Sedibeng, respectively. SUVA values were generally low (<2 ..mg-1.m-1) indicating the presence of aliphatic compounds and less earomaticityf in NOM of the water samples. Water insoluble ƒA-cyclodextrin (ƒA-CD) polyurethanes were then applied to the water to compare TOC reduction in addition to enormalf water treatment processes, and were found to provide up to 19% additional TOC decrease, and UV absorbance reduction was up to 78%. Results obtained using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis after chlorination, revealed that the water had the potential to form halomethane compounds with chloroform being the most dominant. Again, water-insoluble ƒA-CD polyurethanes were applied to the water as a treatment to remove trihalomethanes (THMs) and were found to efficiently remove up to 95% of THMs formed during the disinfection step. The treatment processes studied have limited ability in dealing with NOM and are not individually effective in NOM removal. Results obtained indicate that the application of ƒA-CD polyurethanes in addition to the water treatment processes may enhance NOM removal in water and significantly reduce the THMs formed.

Natural organic matter (NOM) in South African waters: NOM characterisation using combined assessment techniques

Abstract: In order to remove natural organic matter (NOM) from water in a water treatment train, the composition of the NOM in the source water must be taken into account, especially as it may not necessarily be uniform since the composition is dependent on the local environment. The main thrust of this study was to ascertain whether a cocktail of characterisation protocols could help to determine the nature, composition and character of NOM in South African waters. The characterisation of South African water sources was done by sampling 8 different water treatment plants located within the 5 major source water types in South Africa. The NOM composition of all of the samples was first studied by applying conventional techniques (UV, DOC, SUVA and bulk water parameters). NOM characterisation was then further conducted using advanced techniques (BDOC, PRAM and FEEM), which were aimed at developing rapid assessment protocols. The FEEM and UV results revealed that the samples consisted mainly of humic substances with a high UV-254 absorbance, while some samples had marine humic substances and non-humic substances. The sample’s DOC results were within the range of 3.5 to 22.6 mg·l −1 C, which was indicative of the extent of variation of NOM quantities in the regions where samples were obtained. The BDOC fraction of the NOM ranged between 12 and 66%, depending on the geographical location of the sampling site. A modified PRAM was utilised to characterise the changes in NOM polarity in the water treatment process. PRAM results also indicated that the NOM samples were mostly hydrophobic. The composition and character of the NOM was found to vary from one water treatment plant to another. Combining conventional and advanced techniques could be a powerful tool for NOM characterisation and for extracting detailed information on NOM character, which should inform its treatability.

A comparative assessment of chemical contaminant removal by three household water treatment filters

Abstract: This study was aimed at modifying the design of, constructing, evaluating and comparing chemical contaminant removal efficiency by, 3 household water treatment filters. The filters were: 1) biosand filter (BSF); 2) the ceramic candle filter (CCF); 3) bucket filter (BF). The filters were evaluated for their efficiency in removal of calcium, magnesium, iron and arsenic, nitrates, phosphates, fluorides, total organic carbon and turbidity, by determining levels of these contaminants in water before and after filtration through the filters. The effects of chlorophyll a concentration(mg/m3) of intake water, as well as the effects of turbidity of intake water, on the flow rates of the filters was quantified and recommendations on the quality of water that could be filtered through these filters were made. Chlorophyll a concentrations in intake water had a positive correlation with the turbidity of the unfiltered water (r = 0.607).The flow rates of the filters were 0.8 l/h - 6.48 l/h (BSF), 0.05 l/h - 2.495 l/h (CCF) and 106.5 l/h - 160.5 l/h (BF). Because of the large particle size materials used in constructing the BF and the design, which caused it to be a rapid sand filter, the biosand filter (BF) was found to have flow rates significantly higher than those of BSF and CCF (p ≥ 0.05). There was no difference in the efficiency of removal of metals (average 40% - 50%) by the filters (p ≥ 0.05), as the same removal mechanisms (straining, ammonification, fixation and adsorption) were believed to be taking place in all of the filters. The CCF removed total organic carbon (TOC) (up to 39%) better than the BSF and BF (p ≤ 0.05). The filters removed turbidity effectively with the BSF having the highest reduction (70%). The average turbidity reduction efficiency was in the order BSF (70%) > BF (51%) > CCF (44%). The BSF, CCF and BF reduced turbidity and other contaminants even after filtering a total cumulative volume greater than 1 000 l. Keywords : Biosand filter, bucket filter, ceramic candle filter, flow rate, chlorophyll a .

Synthesis and characterisation of Pd-modified N-doped TiO2 for photocatalytic degradation of natural organic matter (NOM) fractions

Abstract: Introduction The removal of natural organic matter (NOM) from water is becoming increasingly important in order to prevent the formation of carcinogenic disinfection by-products. The inadequate removal of NOM has a bearing on the capacity of the other treatment processes to remove organic micro-pollutants or inorganic species that may be present in the water. New methods are therefore currently being sought to effectively characterise NOM and also to ensure that it is sufficiently removed from drinking water sources.

Electroanalysis of copper as a heavy metal pollutant in water using cobalt oxide modified exfoliated graphite electrode

Abstract: Copper is one of the heavy metals that have been recognized as essential for living organisms in trace amounts as a cofactor for crucial enzymes. However, excess amount of this trace element can have serious health effects. It is therefore important to monitor Cu in drinking water as it can easily be overlooked due to its biological functions. An electrochemical technique using re-compressed exfoliated graphite modified with cobalt oxide nanoparticles was evaluated as an electrochemical sensor for the detection of Cu2+ in spiked water samples. The analysis involved an accumulation step at −500 mV while stirring followed by square wave-anodic stripping voltammetry (SW-ASV). The accumulation step resulted in the reduction of Cu2+ ions in solution onto the electrode surface which were subsequently stripped off on the second step resulting in an analytical current signal. The electrodeposition time and potential were first optimised and the best conditions were used to get a detection limit of 94 μg L−1. This sensor was used for Cu analysis in real water samples using standard addition method with percentage recoveries of between 99% and 101%.

Synthesis and characterization of carbon-covered alumina (CCA) supported TiO 2 nanocatalysts with enhanced visible light photodegradation of Rhodamine B

Abstract: The anatase phase of titania (TiO2) nano-photocatalysts was prepared using a modified sol gel process and thereafter embedded on carbon-covered alumina supports. The carbon-covered alumina (CCA) supports were prepared via the adsorption of toluene 2,4-diisocyanate (TDI) on the surface of the alumina. TDI was used as the carbon source for the first time for the carbon-covered alumina support system. The adsorption of TDI on alumina is irreversible; hence, the resulting organic moiety can undergo pyrolysis at high temperatures resulting in the formation of a carbon coating on the surface of the alumina. The TiO2 catalysts were impregnated on the CCA supports. X-ray diffraction analysis indicated that the carbon deposited on the alumina was not crystalline and also showed the successful impregnation of TiO2 on the CCA supports. In the Raman spectra, it could be deduced that the carbon was rather a conjugated olefinic or polycyclic hydrocarbons which can be considered as molecular units of a graphitic plane. The Raman analysis of the catalysed CCAs showed the presence of both the anatase titania and D and G band associated with the carbon of the CCAs. The scanning electron microscope micrographs indicated that the alumina was coated by a carbon layer and the energy dispersive X-ray spectra showed the presence of Al, O and C in the CCA samples, with the addition of Ti for the catalyst impregnated supports. The Brunauer Emmet and Teller surface area analysis showed that the incorporating of carbon on the alumina surface resulted in an increase in surface area, while the impregnation with TiO2 resulted in a further increase in surface area. However, a decrease in the pore volume and diameter was observed. The photocatalytic activity of the nanocatalysts was studied for the degradation of Rhodamine B dye. The CCA-TiO2 nanocatalysts were found to be more photocatalytically active under both visible and UV light irradiation compared to the free TIO2 nanocatalysts.

Reactivities of Modified and Unmodified Exfoliated Graphite Electrodes in Selected Redox Systems

Abstract: The electrochemical profiles of exfoliated graphite electrodes (EG) and glassy carbon electrodes (GCE) were recorded using cyclic voltammetry and square wave voltammetry in the presence of various supporting electrolytes and Fe(CN)(6)](3-/4-), Ru(NH3)(6)](2+/3+), ferrocene redox probes In the supporting electrolytes (KCl, H2SO4, NaOH, tetrabutylammoniumtetraflouroborate, phosphate buffers), the potential windows of EG were found in some cases to be about 200 mV larger than that of GCE The electroactive surface area of EG was estimated to be 195 % larger than the GCE which resulted in higher peak currents on the EG electrode Furthermore, EG was modified with various nanomaterials such as poly (propylene imine) dendrimer, gold nanoparticles, and dendrimer-gold nanoparticles composite The morphologies of the modified electrodes were studied using scanning electron microscopy and their electrochemical reactivities in the three redox probes were investigated The current and the reversibility of redox probes were enhanced with the presence of modifiers in different degrees with dendrimer and gold nanoparticles having a favorable edge

Determination of phthalate ester plasticizers in the aquatic environment using hollow fibre supported liquid membranes

Abstract: Phthalates are known to be carcinogenic, teratogenic as well as endocrine disruptors. The potential risk to human and animals health generated from them has drawn great attention all over the world. Hollow fibre supported liquid membrane (HFSLM) online with high pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) was used to determine benzyl butyl phthalate (BBP), dibutyl phthalate (DBP) and Diethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) in wastewater. Toluene, di-n-hexyl ether and undecane were used as liquid barriers separating both donor (sample) and acceptor phase. Toluene performed much better than undecane and was used in sample preparation. The presence of toluene showed the potential for the enrichment and removal of phthalates to the concentrations ranges from 0 to 1.7 mg L−1.

The enrichment and removal of arsenic (III) from water samples using HFSLM

Abstract: At specific concentrations oxyanions such as arsenic pose a major threat to human beings and to the environment because of their ability to biomagnify. The World Health Organization has set the drinking water standard at 10 μg l −1 for arsenic. It is in this regard that novel and cheaper methods to detect oxyanions and remove them from the environment are developed. In this work, we have developed sample preparation methods involving solid phase and liquid membrane for the extraction and enrichment of these oxyanions in aqueous environments. Various parameters which govern their optimal extraction and enrichment have been optimised. The manipulation of the liquid membrane extraction process was utilised to selectively extract arsenic (III) which is more toxic as compared to arsenic (V). The liquid membrane consisted of a combination of two organic solvents, and n-undecane and di-n-hexyl ether were used in a combination at various ratios of the two liquid membranes. The means of detection was by graphite furnace atomic absorption spectroscopy (GFAAS) as well as inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES). The applicability of the method was tested in real wastewater samples where it was able to remove at least 50% of As (III) with enrichment factors of up to 20.

Characterisation of natural organic matter (NOM) and its removal using cyclodextrin polyurethanes

Abstract: Natural organic matter (NOM) occurs in all natural water sources when animal and plant material breaks down. NOM in water may react with chlorine and other disinfectants to produce disinfection by-products (DBPs), many of which are either carcinogenic or mutagenic. In this study the NOM content of the raw water from the Vaalkop Water Treatment Plant (which uses both chlorination and ozonation as treatment protocols) was characterised after fractionation on ion-exchange resins. Fractionation at different pH values resulted in the isolation of a neutral, a basic and an acidic component of either predominantly hydrophobic or hydrophilic NOM. In addition, NOM results from 3 open water bodies in Johannesburg were evaluated in the same manner. As expected, NOM from all water sources was predominantly hydrophobic (~60%). Each of the 6 isolated NOM fractions was percolated through synthetic cyclodextrin (CD) polyurethanes to determine the extent to which the CD polymers can remove NOM from water. The hydrophobic basic fraction and the hydrophilic acid fraction were most efficiently removed (24% and 10%, respectively). The remaining fractions were not much affected by the polymer treatment.

Adsorption of 2,4,6-Trichlorophenol and ortho-Nitrophenol from Aqueous Media Using Surfactant-Modified Clinoptilolite–Polypropylene Hollow Fibre Composites

Abstract: Natural clinoptilolite was modified with hexadecyltrimethylammonium chloride, a cationic surfactant, and then melt-mixed with polypropylene hollow fibres to produce polymer composites with adsorptive properties. The performance of the fabricated composites was evaluated by optimizing experimental parameters such as surfactant loading, contact time, pH and initial concentration for the adsorptive removal of 2,4,6-trichlorophenol (TCP) and ortho-nitrophenol (o-NP). Based on the fourier transmission infrared spectra and scanning electron microscopy micrographs of as-received and surfactant-modified clinoptilolite, the modification of natural clinoptilolite was attained. The composites showed enhanced adsorption capability for TCP over o-NP with removal efficiencies of 84% and 46%. Loading the clinoptilolite with surfactant concentrations beyond 8 mM reduced the adsorption capacity. The removal of TCP and o-NP was found to depend critically on the pH of the solution, and the optimum ranges were 4–6 and 2–6 for compounds, respectively. The adsorption dynamics were determined with first- and second-order kinetics models, and the adsorption system for TCP and o-NP followed the first-order kinetics. Adsorption isotherm analysis revealed that the adsorption equilibrium data obeyed/fit the Freundlich isotherm.

A three step approach for removing organic matter from South African water sources and treatment plants

Abstract: The high variability in the levels and composition of natural organic matter (NOM) in South-African water sources in different regions means that no single treatment process can be prescribed for each water treatment plant operating in the country. In order to remove NOM from water in a water treatment train, the composition of the NOM in the source water must be taken into account, especially as it may not necessarily be uniform since the composition is dependent on local environmental situation. The primary objective of this study was to characterise the NOM present in South African source waters through an extensive sampling of representative water types across the country and then develop a rapid NOM characterisation protocol. Water samples were thus collected from eight different water treatment plants located throughout the country at different sites of their water treatment trains. Raw water samples, the intermediate samples before filtration and water samples before disinfection were collected at these drinking water treatment plants. The fluorescence excitation–emission matrices (FEEMs), biodegradable dissolved organic carbon (BDOC), ultraviolet (UV) characterisation (200–900 nm) and dissolved organic carbon (DOC) analysis were used to characterise the NOM in the water samples. The FEEM and UV results revealed that the samples were composed mainly of humic substances with a high UV-254 absorbance, while some samples had marine humic substances and non-humic substances. The sample’s DOC results were within the range of 3.25–21.44 mg C/L, which was indicative of the varying nature of the NOM composition in the regions where samples were obtained. The BDOC fraction of the NOM, on the other hand, ranged from 20% to 65%, depending on the geographical location of the sampling site. It is evident from the results obtained that the NOM composition varied per sampling site which would eventually have a bearing on its treatability. The various water treatment processes employed at the different treatment plants were able to effectively reduce NOM, as evidenced by a percentage DOC removal of between 11% and 85%. The highest DOC removal was achieved at the treatment plants that had highly humic and coloured raw water sources.

Adsorption Behaviour of Ethylene Vinyl Acetate and Polycaprolactone-Bentonite Composites for Pb 2+ Uptake

Abstract: The results presented in this work show that the hydrophobic thermoplastics, namely ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) and polycaprolactone (PCL), could be good matrices for the synthesis of polymer/bentonite composites via the melt-blending method for the removal of heavy metals from water. The hydrophobic nature of the polymers was countered by using dry Na2SO4 to form large free-volume pores. These pores, formed after the removal of the Na2SO4 by washing, improved the contact ratio between bentonite particles and Pb2+ ions. The composites were able to achieve up to 78% Pb2+ removal at an initial concentration of 200 mg/L in 10 h with a clay loading of 3% (w/w). The results confirmed that the PCL/bentonite composite was more effective and efficient in the adsorption of Pb2+ than the EVA/bentonite composite. The experimental data for both composites followed Langmuir and Freundlich models. The uptake of Pb2+ was found to be a result of a chemical interaction between the heavy metal, silanol (Si–OH) and aluminol (Al–OH) groups. The adsorption of Pb2+ onto the composites was found to follow pseudo-first-order kinetics and the results supported a monomolecular reaction mechanism.

Efficiency of Silver Impregnated Porous Pot (SIPP) Filters for Production of Clean Potable Water

Abstract: The Silver Impregnated Porous Pot (SIPP) filter is a product of the Tshwane University of Technology manufactured for the production of safe drinking water at a household (home) level. Two SIPP devices were assessed for the reduction efficiency of chemical contaminants such as calcium, magnesium, iron, arsenic, fluorides and total organic carbon (TOC) as well as microbial contaminants from environmental samples. Turbidity change after filtration, together with correlation between chlorophyll a in the feed water and SIPP’s flow rates were also evaluated in order to give comprehensive guidelines on the quality of intake water that could be filtered through the filter without causing a significant decrease in flow rate. The SIPP filters removed contaminants from environmental water samples as follows: 70% to 92% iron, 36% to 68% calcium, 42% to 82% arsenic, 39% to 98% magnesium, 39% to 95% fluorides, 12% to 35% TOC and 45% to 82% turbidity. The SIPP filters had initial flow rates of 1 L/h to 4 L/h but the flow rates dropped to 0.5 L/h with an increase in cumulative volume of intake water as the filter was used. Turbidity and chemical contaminant reduction rates decreased with accumulating volume of intake water but the filter removed Ca, Fe and Mg to levels that comply with the South African National Standards (SANS 241) and the World Health Organization (WHO) guideline values. However, the SIPP filters cannot produce enough water to satisfy the daily drinking water requirement of a typical household (25 L/p·d). Chlorophyll a was associated with a decrease in the flow rate through the SIPP filters.

Controlling the release of wood extractives into water bodies by selecting suitable eucalyptus species

Abstract: Pulping industries are increasing worldwide as a result of the increase in the demand for pulp for cellulose derivatives and paper manufacturing. Due to the activities involved in pulping processes, different chemicals from raw materials (wood) and bleaching agents are released in pulp-mill effluent streams discharged into the environment and find their way into water bodies. Large quantities of water and chemicals used in pulping result in large amounts of wastewater with high concentrations of extractives such as unsaturated fatty acids, which are known to be toxic, and plant sterols which affect the development, growth and reproduction of aquatic organisms. This study was aimed at assessing the composition of extractives in two eucalyptus species used for pulp production in South Africa, in order to identify the suitable species with regard to extractive content. Samples from two eucalyptus plant species ( Eucalyptus grandis and Eucalyptus dunnii ) were collected from three sites and analysed for extractives by first extracting with water, followed by Soxhlet extraction using acetone. Compounds were identified and quantified using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Major classes of extractives identified were fatty acids (mainly hexadecanoic acid, 9,12-octadecadienoic, 9-octadecenoic and octadecanoic acids) and sterols (mainly β-sitosterol and stigmastanol). E. dunnii was found to contain higher amounts of the compounds compared to those found in E. grandis in all sampled sites. Principal component analysis (PCA) was performed and explained 92.9% of the total variation using three principal components. It was revealed that the percentage of fatty acids, which has a negative influence on both principal components 2 and 3, was responsible for the difference between the species. E. grandis , which was found to contain low amounts of extractives, was therefore found suitable for pulping with regard to minimal water usage and environment pollution.

Removal of heavy metals from industrial effluents by water hyacinth (Eichornia crassipes)

Abstract: A study was carried out using water hyacinth as a pollution monitor for the simultaneous removal of heavy metals such as copper (Cu), cadmium (Cd), iron (Fe), zinc (Zn), lead (Pb), chromium (Cr) and aluminium (Al). Effluents were collected from eight industries including paint, textiles, aluminium, galvanizing and battery industries situated in Lagos State, Nigeria. After cultivation of the plant for seven days in a plastic bowl containing each effluent, while sampling was carried out from the bowl everyday, the collected samples were analyzed for Pb, Fe, Zn, Cr and Cu at wavelengths 248.3, 213.7, 357.9 and 324.9 nm respectively using atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Aluminium was determined using UVspectrophotometry and potassium was determined using a flame photometer. The results of the analysis indicated that the range of the heavy metal in the effluents before the cleaning process were Pb (0.1 to 4.4 ppm), Cr (0.39 to 0.5 ppm), Cu (0.08 to 1.65 ppm), Zn (0.7 to 8.7 ppm), Fe (1.2 to 7.5 ppm), Al (0.15 to 1.05 ppm) and Ni (0.6 to 49.2 ppm) while Cd was not detected in none of the effluents. The values were higher than the Federal Ministry of Environment and the World Health Organization effluent limitation guidelines recommended levels. The cleaning experiment showed that water hyacinth has the ability to clean-up the effluents of their heavy metals content by removing about 70 to 90% of their initial concentrations within four to six days of the experimental set-up. Key words: Industrial effluents, heavy metals, water hyacinth, health impact, environmental pollution.