Description:Field of the Invention

The present disclosure generally relates to water purification systems. More particularly, it relates to a system for the removal of fluoride from wastewater utilizing a nanocellulose bio-composite.
Background
The background description includes information that may be useful in understanding the present invention. It is not an admission that any of the information provided herein is prior art or relevant to the presently claimed invention, or that any publication specifically or implicitly referenced is prior art.
The contamination of water sources with fluoride ions is a growing environmental and health concern worldwide. Prolonged ingestion of high levels of fluoride can lead to fluorosis, a condition that affects teeth and bones, and various other health issues. Traditional methods for fluoride removal from water include reverse osmosis, ion exchange, and the use of activated alumina, among others. While these methods are effective to varying degrees, they often involve high operational costs, use of chemicals, and generation of secondary waste, thereby posing additional environmental challenges. Furthermore, the disposal of used materials from these processes contributes to an ever-increasing waste management problem.
There exists an urgent need for innovative solutions that are both environmentally sustainable and economically viable. The utilization of nanocellulose, particularly derived from agricultural waste, presents a significant advancement in addressing the issue of fluoride pollution in water sources. Nanocellulose, by virtue of its large surface area and abundant functional groups, exhibits exceptional adsorption properties. These characteristics make it an excellent candidate for the removal of fluoride ions from contaminated water. The process of deriving nanocellulose from agricultural waste transforms a potential disposal problem into a valuable resource for water purification processes.
Incorporating agricultural waste such as cotton seed cover and groundnut cover not only adds value to otherwise discarded materials but also aligns with global sustainability goals. This approach simultaneously tackles the challenges of water pollution and waste management, offering a circular solution that benefits the environment. The method of using nanocellulose bio-composites provides a green alternative to conventional water treatment methods by minimizing the reliance on synthetic chemicals and reducing the ecological footprint of the decontamination process.
The implementation of such a system presents a dual benefit; it not only contributes to the safeguarding of public health by providing cleaner drinking water but also promotes environmental sustainability. By converting agricultural waste into a valuable material for fluoride adsorption, the technology encourages the recycling of biomass and supports the broader objectives of waste reduction and resource recovery. This approach of managing fluoride contamination reflects a growing trend towards integrating environmental responsibility with technological innovation.
Summary
The following presents a simplified summary of various aspects of this disclosure in order to provide a basic understanding of such aspects. This summary is not an extensive overview of all contemplated aspects, and is intended to neither identify key or critical elements nor delineate the scope of such aspects. Its purpose is to present some concepts of this disclosure in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.
The following paragraphs provide additional support for the claims of the subject application.
The present disclosure outlines a novel system designed to mitigate fluoride contamination in wastewater, leveraging the unique properties of nanocellulose bio-composites. This system represents a significant advancement in the realm of environmental engineering and water purification technology, providing a sustainable solution to a pressing global issue.
In an embodiment, the core of the system is the synthesis unit, which creates a nanocellulose bio-composite (NCBC) from a synthesized mixture containing acrylic acid and 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA) in equal mole ratios. This mixture is combined with nanocellulose fibers (NCF), derived from cotton seed and groundnut cover . The NCF is meticulously prepared through a process involving treatment with sodium hydroxide, followed by bleaching and acid treatment, ensuring the removal of amorphous materials and enhancing the Fiber’s crystalline structure.
In an embodiment, the reaction chamber houses the wastewater and NCBC under conditions of agitation to promote the adsorption of fluoride ions onto the NCBC. The system’s approach to fluoride removal is predicated on the capacity of NCBC to bind with fluoride ions, drawing them out of the water effectively and efficiently.
In an embodiment, subsequent to the adsorption process, a filtration step equipped with Whatman filter paper is utilized to separate the treated water from the NCBC. This step is critical for the recovery of the fluoride-reduced water, which can then be safely reintroduced into the environment or repurposed for industrial and agricultural needs.
In an embodiment, the preparation of the NCF is refined to improve adsorption efficiency. This involves treating the agricultural waste powders with a 2% sodium hydroxide solution, a procedure that facilitates the removal of unwanted amorphous materials and optimizes the fibers for subsequent use in the NCBC.
In an embodiment, the bleaching process is undertaken using a mix of hydrogen peroxide and sodium hydroxide, enhancing the whiteness and purity of the NCF. This is complemented by an acid treatment with sulfuric acid, which further improves the crystal structure of the fibers, thereby increasing their effectiveness as a component of the NCBC.
In an embodiment, the synthesis of the NCBC is initiated by introducing ammonium persulfate (APS) and N, N-Methylene bis acrylamide (MBA) to the mixture. This reaction is conducted under a nitrogen atmosphere to maintain an inert environment, essential for the formation of the NCBC.
In an embodiment, the polymerization reaction for the NCBC is carefully controlled, conducted at a specific temperature and duration to ensure the complete formation of the bio-composite. This precise process culminates in the cooling of the NCBC, which solidifies the material, readying it for use in the fluoride removal process.
In an embodiment, the system is equipped with a magnetic stirrer, serving to maintain a homogeneous mixture within the reaction chamber. This ensures the consistent interaction between the NCBC and wastewater, thus optimizing the fluoride adsorption process.
In an embodiment, the system includes a UV-Visible spectrophotometer, a critical component for quantifying the concentration of fluoride ions within the wastewater. Employing the SPADNS method, the system can assess the fluoride levels before and after treatment, providing an empirical measure of the NCBC's efficacy.
In an embodiment, the design of the filtration step considers the sustainability of the process, allowing the NCBC to be recovered and reused. This not only speaks to the efficiency of the system but also its role in promoting environmentally conscious water treatment practices.
In an embodiment, the NCBC itself is characterized by a surface chemistry and porosity specifically modified to enhance its ability to adsorb fluoride ions. This results in a highly efficient medium for fluoride removal, setting a new standard for wastewater treatment materials.
The present disclosure outlines a method for the removal of fluoride from wastewater using a system equipped with a nanocellulose bio-composite (NCBC). The method encompasses the synthesis of nanocellulose fibers (NCF) from agricultural waste, followed by their incorporation into a polymer matrix consisting of acrylic acid and 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA) to form the NCBC. This synthesis process is carried out in a synthesis unit under an inert atmosphere to ensure the structural integrity of the NCBC. Wastewater containing fluoride ions is introduced into a reaction chamber where it is agitated with the NCBC to promote the adsorption of fluoride onto the composite material. The mixture is then passed through a filtration unit fitted with Whatman filter paper to separate the fluoride-laden NCBC from the treated water. The efficacy of the fluoride removal process is quantified using a UV-Visible spectrophotometer, applying the SPADNS method to measure fluoride ion concentrations pre- and post-treatment. The NCBC’s enhanced surface chemistry and porosity allow for efficient fluoride ion adsorption, while the system design facilitates the NCBC's recovery and reuse, underscoring the method's emphasis on environmental sustainability and cost-effectiveness.

Brief Description of the Drawings

The features and advantages of the present disclosure would be more clearly understood from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which:
FIG. 1 illustrates a system (100) for the removal of fluoride from wastewater, in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIG. 2 illustrates a method (200) for removing fluoride from wastewater using the system, in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIG. 3 illustrates a synthesis of cotton nanocellulose fibre (CNF) and groundnut nanocellulose fibre (GNF), in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIG. 4 illustrates a schematic diagram for preparation of nanocellulose bio composite (NCBC), in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIG. 5 portrays a detailed examination of the cotton nanocellulose bio-composite (NCBC) through Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Energy Dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis, in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIG. 6 showcases the detailed surface morphology and elemental composition of the groundnut nanocellulose bio-composite (NCBC) via Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Energy Dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis, in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIG. 7 depicts a comparative analysis of the efficacy of fluoride removal over time by using two different nanocellulose bio-composites (NCBCs, in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure.

Detailed Description
In the following detailed description of the invention, reference is made to the accompanying drawings that form a part hereof, and in which is shown, by way of illustration, specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. In the drawings, like numerals describe substantially similar components throughout the several views. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to claim those skilled in the art to practice the invention. Other embodiments may be utilized and structural, logical, and electrical changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. The following detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of the present invention is defined only by the appended claims and equivalents thereof.
The use of the terms “a” and “an” and “the” and “at least one” and similar referents in the context of describing the invention (especially in the context of the following claims) are to be construed to cover both the singular and the plural, unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. The use of the term “at least one” followed by a list of one or more items (for example, “at least one of A and B”) is to be construed to mean one item selected from the listed items (A or B) or any combination of two or more of the listed items (A and B), unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. The terms “comprising,” “having,” “including,” and “containing” are to be construed as open-ended terms (i.e., meaning “including, but not limited to,”) unless otherwise noted. Recitation of ranges of values herein are merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value falling within the range, unless otherwise indicated herein, and each separate value is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein. All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g., “such as”) provided herein, is intended merely to better illuminate the invention and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the invention unless otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element as essential to the practice of the invention.
Pursuant to the "Detailed Description" section herein, whenever an element is explicitly associated with a specific numeral for the first time, such association shall be deemed consistent and applicable throughout the entirety of the "Detailed Description" section, unless otherwise expressly stated or contradicted by the context.
FIG. 1 illustrates a system (100) for the removal of fluoride from wastewater, in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure. The system comprises several critical components, each contributing to the overall efficacy and functionality of the fluoride removal process.
At the core of the system lies the synthesis unit, denoted by reference numeral 102. Within this unit, a nanocellulose bio-composite (NCBC) is synthesized. The process involves polymerizing a meticulously prepared mixture consisting of acrylic acid and 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA), combined in a 1:1 mole ratio. The chosen ratio ensures an optimal polymer network for adsorbing fluoride ions. The polymerization mixture is then combined with nanocellulose fibers (NCF), which are derived from agricultural waste materials, specifically cotton seed cover and groundnut cover powders. The NCF preparation is a multi-step process involving an initial treatment with sodium hydroxide, followed by bleaching and acid treatments. These steps are crucial for enhancing the adsorptive properties of the NCBC, which is instrumental in the removal of fluoride from wastewater.
The reaction chamber, associated with reference numeral 104, serves as the containment vessel for the wastewater and the NCBC. Within this chamber, the mixture is subjected to agitation. This agitation is an essential step in the process as it ensures uniform contact between the wastewater and the NCBC, thereby maximizing the adsorption of fluoride ions onto the NCBC. The design and operational parameters of the reaction chamber are such that they provide an optimized environment for the adsorption process, factoring in parameters such as agitation speed, duration, and temperature.
Following the reaction, the system incorporates a filtration unit, marked by reference numeral 106. The filtration unit is equipped with a Whatman filter paper, a component selected for its specific properties conducive to separating the treated water from the NCBC post adsorption. The passage of water while retaining the NCBC, which by now contains the adsorbed fluoride ions. This separation is a critical phase in the process, allowing for the collection of treated water with significantly reduced fluoride content.
The synthesis of the NCBC in the synthesis unit 102 involves a precise and controlled reaction. The process starts with the polymerizing mixture that includes acrylic acid and HEMA, to which the NCF, prepared from cotton seed cover and groundnut cover powders, is added. The preparation of NCF is carefully controlled, with the powders first being treated with sodium hydroxide. This alkali treatment serves to remove amorphous materials, which may impede the adsorption efficiency of the final NCBC. Subsequently, the NCF undergoes bleaching, a step that not only improves the visual appeal of the material but also contributes to the removal of any residual impurities that could potentially interfere with the performance of the NCBC. The acid treatment that follows is designed to further refine the crystal structure of the NCF, enhancing its mechanical and adsorptive properties.
The NCBC, characterized by its superior adsorptive capabilities, results from the careful synthesis within the synthesis unit 102. This bio-composite is the product of an intricate interplay between organic chemistry and materials science. There action is initiated by the introduction of initiators and cross-linkers, such as ammonium persulfate (APS) and N, N-Methylenebisacrylamide (MBA). These components are critical to the formation of the polymeric network that defines the NCBC. The reaction is conducted under a nitrogen atmosphere, a precautionary measure to prevent unwanted side reactions that could occur in the presence of oxygen.
The subsequent steps in the synthesis process, including maintaining the reaction at 70°C for 90 minutes and the cooling at -18°C for 24 hours, are essential to ensure the complete formation and proper setting of the NCBC. These steps are meticulously optimized to yield a bio-composite with ideal physical properties for the adsorption of fluoride ions.
The system 100 further emphasizes the aspect of environmental sustainability and cost-effectiveness. The filtration unit 106 is not merely a means to an end but is an integral part of a sustainable process design. The ability to recover and reuse the NCBC after the filtration process is indicative of the system's commitment to sustainability. This approach minimizes waste generation and underscores the reusability aspect of the NCBC, adding an economic advantage by reducing the need for constant synthesis of fresh adsorbent materials.
Furthermore, the system 100 includes a means for monitoring and quantifying the effectiveness of the fluoride removal process. A UV-Visible spectrophotometer is utilized to measure the concentration of fluoride ions in the wastewater before and after treatment. This measurement is performed using the SPADNS method, a standard procedure for fluoride detection. The inclusion of such analytical equipment is essential for quality control and ensures that the system's performance meets the requisite standards for fluoride removal.
In an embodiment, the nanocellulose fibers are prepared by subjecting powders of cotton seed cover and groundnut cover to a treatment with a 2% sodium hydroxide solution at a temperature of 50°C for a duration of three hours. This treatment is designed to remove amorphous materials, which may impede the subsequent steps of bleaching and acid treatment. The subsequent bleaching process improves the crystal structure of the nanocellulose fibers, while the acid treatment further refines the fibers to achieve a white coloration. This preparation process is vital as it enhances the adsorptive capacity of the fibers by improving their structural characteristics, thereby making them suitable for use in the synthesis unit of the fluoride removal system.
In an embodiment, bleaching of the nanocellulose fibers is performed using a solution composed of 3% hydrogen peroxide and 4% sodium hydroxide, maintained at a consistent temperature of 50°C for three hours. Following the bleaching, an acid treatment is conducted using a 52% (w/w) sulfuric acid solution at a temperature of 45°C for two hours. These treatments are meticulously calibrated to achieve the optimal condition of the nanocellulose fibers, ensuring that they possess the necessary white coloration and crystal structure for effective fluoride ion adsorption.
In an embodiment, the polymerization reaction for synthesizing the nanocellulose bio-composite (NCBC) is initiated by the addition of ammonium persulfate (APS) and N, N-Methylenebisacrylamide (MBA) to the mixture comprising acrylic acid and 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA). The process is carried out under nitrogen gas to maintain an inert atmosphere, which is crucial for preventing unwanted oxidative reactions that may compromise the quality of the NCBC.
In an embodiment, the reaction to synthesize the NCBC is carried out at a temperature of 70°C for 90 minutes. This controlled environment ensures complete polymerization of the mixture, after which the product is subjected to a cooling phase at -18°C for 24 hours to solidify the NCBC. The cooling step is critical to the process, as it allows the synthesized NCBC to achieve the desired consistency and stability for use in the reaction chamber.
In an embodiment, a magnetic stirrer is included as part of the system to ensure homogeneity of the mixture in the reaction chamber. The stirrer operates to facilitate the interaction between the wastewater and the NCBC, promoting efficient adsorption of fluoride ions. The magnetic stirrer plays a crucial role in maintaining the consistency of the mixture, ensuring that all parts of the NCBC come into contact with the fluoride ions in the wastewater.
In an embodiment, a UV-Visible spectrophotometer is utilized to measure the concentration of fluoride ions in the wastewater before and after treatment with the NCBC. The spectrophotometer employs the SPADNS method for fluoride detection, a technique known for its sensitivity and accuracy. This analytical step is indispensable as it allows for the quantification of fluoride removal, providing essential data on the efficacy of the treatment process.
In an embodiment, the filtration unit is uniquely designed to allow not only for the separation of treated water from the NCBC but also for the recovery and reuse of the NCBC after the treatment process. This design element underscores the sustainable and cost-effective approach of the system, as it enables the recycling of the NCBC, thereby reducing material costs and waste generation.
In an embodiment, the NCBC used in the system is characterized by its modified surface chemistry and increased porosity. These attributes are specifically engineered to enhance the adsorption efficiency of the NCBC for fluoride ions present in wastewater. The surface modifications and porosity levels are tailored to provide an expansive surface area and the presence of functional groups necessary for the effective binding and removal of fluoride ions.
FIG. 2 illustrates a method (200) for removing fluoride from wastewater using the system, in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure. At step 202, nanocellulose fibers (NCF) are synthesized from cotton seed cover and groundnut cover . This process involves washing, drying, crushing the powders, followed by alkali treatment, bleaching, acid treatment, and sonication, preparing the fibers for use in fluoride removal. At step 204, a nanocellulose bio-composite (NCBC) is prepared within the synthesis unit. This involves polymerizing a mixture of acrylic acid and 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA) in a 1:1 mole ratio, incorporating the previously prepared NCF, and conducting the polymerization under an inert atmosphere to form the NCBC. At step 206, the wastewater and the NCBC are introduced into a reaction chamber where the mixture is agitated. This agitation facilitates the adsorption of fluoride ions from the wastewater onto the NCBC, effectively reducing the fluoride concentration in the water. At step 208, after the adsorption process, the mixture is filtered through a filtration unit equipped with Whatman filter paper. This step separates the treated water from the NCBC, which now contains the adsorbed fluoride ions, thereby purifying the water. At step 210, the concentration of fluoride ions in the wastewater is measured both before and after treatment using a UV-Visible spectrophotometer and the SPADNS method. This measurement evaluates the effectiveness of the fluoride removal process, demonstrating the system's capability to purify wastewater by significantly reducing its fluoride content.
FIG. 3 illustrates a synthesis of cotton nanocellulose fibre (CNF) and groundnut nanocellulose fibre (GNF), in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure. The procedure initiates with ground nut and cotton seed covers, which are subjected to an alkaline treatment to remove lignin and hemicellulose, thus exposing the cellulose fibers. This step is visualized by the darkening of the mixture, indicating impurity removal. The subsequent filtration phase separates the alkaline solution from the solid residue. Neutralization follows to balance the pH, preparing the fibers for bleaching, where the application of bleaching agents further purifies the cellulose, as evidenced by the transition to a significantly lighter color. After bleaching, an acid hydrolysis is performed to break down the cellulose into nanocellulose, which includes a secondary filtration to remove the acid, leaving behind a gel-like substance. The material is then bleached again to achieve the desired whiteness and purity. The resulting product undergoes grinding to refine the texture and homogeneity, culminating in the final nanocellulose product. These CNF and GNF samples display the transformation from raw agricultural residue to a fine, powdered form of nanocellulose, showcasing the material's evolution through each pivotal stage of the manufacturing process.
FIG. 4 illustrates a schematic diagram for preparation of nanocellulose bio composite (NCBC), in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure. Starting with the sonication of groundnut particles, a crucial step to disperse and break down the material into finer particles, enhancing reactivity. This step is followed by reaction, where the sonicated particles are mixed under controlled temperature conditions to induce the formation of the NCBC. Once reaction is complete, the mixture is placed in a refrigerator, allowing the composite material to cool and solidify. Post-refrigeration, the NCBC is ground into a fine powder, homogenizing the composite for uniform application. The grinding process also enables customization of particle size to suit various end-uses. In the final steps, the ground composite is sieved to separate larger particles from the desired finer material, ensuring consistency in the final NCBC product. These larger particles can either be reprocessed or utilized for different applications where a larger particle size is acceptable. The images clearly show the transformation of the initial materials through each stage, culminating in the final NCBC, ready for deployment in environmental applications such as fluoride removal from wastewater.
FIG. 5 portrays a detailed examination of the cotton nanocellulose bio-composite (NCBC) through Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Energy Dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis, in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure. The SEM analysis reveals the intricate surface morphology of NCBCs derived from groundnut and cotton, with images displaying an uneven porosity structure indicative of the effective breakdown of non-cellulosic constituents. These micrographs at varying magnifications demonstrate that the NCBCs possess a nanometric average diameter, in this case, approximately 100 nm. The porosity observed is a result of the deliberate chemical treatments, namely the repeated alkali process designed to remove hemicellulose and lignin, thus enhancing the material's adsorptive properties. Complementing the SEM, the EDX analysis provides an elemental profile of the bio-composites, capturing distinct spectral peaks that confirm the presence of carbon, oxygen, nitrogen, and sulfur. These elements, especially nitrogen, are integrated into the NCBCs as a consequence of the polymerization reactants used in their synthesis. The EDX spectra exhibit unique peaks corresponding to each element, illustrating the successful incorporation of these atoms into the final bio-composite and confirming the material's chemical composition as designed for environmental remediation applications.
FIG. 6 showcases the detailed surface morphology and elemental composition of the groundnut nanocellulose bio-composite (NCBC) via Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Energy Dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis, in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure. The SEM images distinctly depict the nano-structured porosity and texture of the NCBC, essential for its functionality in environmental applications. Complementing these images, the EDX analysis provides an elemental fingerprint, revealing the presence of key elements such as carbon, oxygen, and nitrogen, which are integral to the composite's structure. The presence of nitrogen, in particular, underscores the chemical processes involved in synthesizing the bio-composite, which is tailored for effective pollutant adsorption.
FIG. 7 depicts a comparative analysis of the efficacy of fluoride removal over time by using two different nanocellulose bio-composites (NCBCs, in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure. The graph indicates a clear trend of increasing fluoride removal efficiency as contact time extends, with both materials. Initially, the fluoride removal efficiency for both composites escalates rapidly, reflecting a higher rate of adsorption at the outset. As time progresses, the curves plateau, indicating that equilibrium is approached, where the maximum adsorption capacity is nearly reached. Interestingly, while both bio-composites demonstrate a similar trend, the groundnut NCBC shows a marginally higher fluoride removal efficiency over the entire duration of the experiment compared to the cotton NCBC. This data suggests that groundnut NCBC may possess a slightly higher affinity for fluoride ions or a more accessible active site architecture for fluoride binding. The graph culminates in both lines levelling off, suggesting that beyond a certain point, additional contact time does not significantly increase fluoride removal, likely due to the saturation of adsorption sites within the NCBCs. This analysis is crucial for determining the optimal contact time for fluoride removal in water treatment processes using these bio-composites.

Claims

I/We claims:

A system (100) for removing fluoride from wastewater comprising:
a synthesis unit (102) comprising a nanocellulose bio-composite (NCBC) synthesized by polymerizing a mixture that includes acrylic acid and 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA) in a 1:1 mole ratio, wherein said mixture is combined with nanocellulose fibers (NCF) prepared from cotton seed cover and groundnut cover powders treated with sodium hydroxide, bleached, and acid-treated;
a reaction chamber (104) for containing said wastewater and said NCBC under agitation; and
a filtration unit (106) equipped with a Whatman filter paper for separating treated water from said NCBC after adsorption of fluoride ions from said wastewater.
The system (100) wherein the nanocellulose fibers (NCF) are prepared by treating the powders of cotton seed cover and groundnut cover with a 2% sodium hydroxide solution for three hours at 50°C to remove amorphous materials, followed by a bleaching process and acid treatment to enhance the crystalline structure and achieve a white coloration.
The system (100) wherein the bleaching step for preparing said NCF is conducted using a solution consisting of 3% hydrogen peroxide and 4% sodium hydroxide at a temperature of 50°C for a duration of three hours, and the acid treatment is performed with 52% (w/w) sulfuric acid for two hours at a temperature of 45°C.
The system (100) wherein the reaction for the synthesis of the NCBC is initiated by the addition of ammonium persulfate (APS) and N,N-Methylenebisacrylamide (MBA) to the mixture, the reaction being maintained under a nitrogen atmosphere to ensure an inert environment.
The system (100) wherein the reaction to form the NCBC is carried out at a temperature of 70°C for a period of 90 minutes to achieve complete polymerization, which is then followed by a cooling period at -18°C lasting for 24 hours to solidify the NCBC.
The system (100) further includes a magnetic stirrer to maintain homogeneity and to aid the reaction between the wastewater and the NCBC within the reaction chamber (104).
The system (100) also encompasses a UV-Visible spectrophotometer for assessing the fluoride ion concentration in the wastewater before and after the treatment with the NCBC, utilizing the SPADNS method for the detection of fluoride.
The system (100) wherein the filtration unit (106) is structured to facilitate the recovery and subsequent reuse of the NCBC after the treatment process, highlighting the system's emphasis on sustainability and cost-efficiency.
The system (100) wherein the NCBC is characterized by a tailored surface chemistry and porosity designed to maximize the adsorption efficiency for fluoride ions from the wastewater.
A method (200) for removing fluoride from wastewater using the system (100), including synthesizing NCF from cotton seed cover and groundnut cover through sequential processes of washing, drying, crushing, alkaline treatment, bleaching, acid treatment, and sonication; preparing the NCBC in the synthesis unit (102) through reaction of a mixture containing acrylic acid and HEMA in equal mole ratios, incorporating the NCF, and conducting the reaction under an inert atmosphere; combining the wastewater with the NCBC in the reaction chamber (104) under agitation; utilizing the filtration unit (106) with Whatman filter paper to separate the treated water from the NCBC; and measuring fluoride ion concentrations pre- and post-treatment with the spectrophotometer to measure the removal efficacy.
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SYSTEM FOR REMOVING FLUORIDE FROM WASTEWATER

Disclosed herein is a system for the removal of fluoride from wastewater. The system comprises a synthesis unit containing a nanocellulose bio-composite (NCBC) synthesized by polymerizing a mixture that includes acrylic acid and 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA) in a 1:1 mole ratio. This mixture is integrated with nanocellulose fibers (NCF) prepared from cotton seed cover and groundnut cover, which undergo treatments with sodium hydroxide, bleaching, and acid to achieve the desired properties. The system also features a reaction chamber wherein the wastewater is agitated in the presence of the NCBC to adsorb fluoride ions. Following adsorption, a filtration unit with Whatman filter paper is used to separate the fluoride-rich NCBC from the treated water, effectively reducing fluoride concentration in the wastewater.
Fig. 1

Drawings
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FIG. 1
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FIG. 2

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FIG. 3

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FIG. 4

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FIG. 5

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FIG. 6

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FIG. 7

, Claims:I/We claims:

A system (100) for removing fluoride from wastewater comprising:
a synthesis unit (102) comprising a nanocellulose bio-composite (NCBC) synthesized by polymerizing a mixture that includes acrylic acid and 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA) in a 1:1 mole ratio, wherein said mixture is combined with nanocellulose fibers (NCF) prepared from cotton seed cover and groundnut cover powders treated with sodium hydroxide, bleached, and acid-treated;
a reaction chamber (104) for containing said wastewater and said NCBC under agitation; and
a filtration unit (106) equipped with a Whatman filter paper for separating treated water from said NCBC after adsorption of fluoride ions from said wastewater.
The system (100) wherein the nanocellulose fibers (NCF) are prepared by treating the powders of cotton seed cover and groundnut cover with a 2% sodium hydroxide solution for three hours at 50°C to remove amorphous materials, followed by a bleaching process and acid treatment to enhance the crystalline structure and achieve a white coloration.
The system (100) wherein the bleaching step for preparing said NCF is conducted using a solution consisting of 3% hydrogen peroxide and 4% sodium hydroxide at a temperature of 50°C for a duration of three hours, and the acid treatment is performed with 52% (w/w) sulfuric acid for two hours at a temperature of 45°C.
The system (100) wherein the reaction for the synthesis of the NCBC is initiated by the addition of ammonium persulfate (APS) and N,N-Methylenebisacrylamide (MBA) to the mixture, the reaction being maintained under a nitrogen atmosphere to ensure an inert environment.
The system (100) wherein the reaction to form the NCBC is carried out at a temperature of 70°C for a period of 90 minutes to achieve complete polymerization, which is then followed by a cooling period at -18°C lasting for 24 hours to solidify the NCBC.
The system (100) further includes a magnetic stirrer to maintain homogeneity and to aid the reaction between the wastewater and the NCBC within the reaction chamber (104).
The system (100) also encompasses a UV-Visible spectrophotometer for assessing the fluoride ion concentration in the wastewater before and after the treatment with the NCBC, utilizing the SPADNS method for the detection of fluoride.
The system (100) wherein the filtration unit (106) is structured to facilitate the recovery and subsequent reuse of the NCBC after the treatment process, highlighting the system's emphasis on sustainability and cost-efficiency.
The system (100) wherein the NCBC is characterized by a tailored surface chemistry and porosity designed to maximize the adsorption efficiency for fluoride ions from the wastewater.
A method (200) for removing fluoride from wastewater using the system (100), including synthesizing NCF from cotton seed cover and groundnut cover through sequential processes of washing, drying, crushing, alkaline treatment, bleaching, acid treatment, and sonication; preparing the NCBC in the synthesis unit (102) through reaction of a mixture containing acrylic acid and HEMA in equal mole ratios, incorporating the NCF, and conducting the reaction under an inert atmosphere; combining the wastewater with the NCBC in the reaction chamber (104) under agitation; utilizing the filtration unit (106) with Whatman filter paper to separate the treated water from the NCBC; and measuring fluoride ion concentrations pre- and post-treatment with the spectrophotometer to measure the removal efficacy.
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SYSTEM FOR REMOVING FLUORIDE FROM WASTEWATER