Abstract

Introduction: Many industries such as manufacturers of pesticides, paints and pharmaceutics  produce large amounts of 2,4,6-Trichlorophenol (TCP). Due to its high toxicity and environmental pollution TCP is classified as a leading hazardous compound. The aim of this study was to investigate the TCP removal by using zeolite (clinoptilolite) modified with surfactants from the aqueous solutions.

Methods: In this study, the granulated and modified zeolite with surfactant Hexadecyltrimethyl Ammonium Chloride were investigated through the impact of the parameters such as pH (3, 5, 7 and 9), time (5 to 240 min), initial concentration of TCP (50 to 200 mg/L), and adsorbent dose (10 to 60 grams per liter) in a batch laboratory scale. The concentration of TCP was measured using a UV-vis  Spectrophotometer at the wavelength of 517 nm.

Results: Results showed that TCP uptake reaches equilibrium after 45 minutes and with increasing concentrations of 50 to 200 mg/L, the absorption rate of 4.04 mg/g to 12.22 mg/g can be increased. According to the results, the amount of TCP adsorption capacity at pH 3, 5, 7 and 9 was 7.02, 7, 4.76 and 4.16 mg per gram, respectively. Increasing the dose absorption of 10 to 60 g/L at constant TCP concentration 200 mg/L also increased the removal efficiency of 60.41% to 87.29% and reduced the absorption capacity of 12.78 mg/g to 2.85 mg/g. Data also showed that the Langmuir isotherm (R²=0.989) and pseudo second-order kinetic (R²>0.99) are compliance.

Conclusion: The results of the study showed that the Iranian modified zeolites can be used effectively in removal of TCP in comparison with other parts of the world. Considering the cost, availability and ease of modification, it can be used to remove TCP in water and wastewater.