Nanoparticles of functionalized silica for the removal of arsenate

The present technology consists of a method and a device for the removal of anions such as arsenates, nitrates, and phosphates, from fresh and industrial water, through the use of silica microparticles and nanoparticles with a modified surface with guanidine groups. Predominantly, these modified particles are composed of a core of silicon dioxide (SiO2) bonded with functionalized guanidine groups of first and second-generation dendrons. Dendrons are polymeric configurations with a tree-like geometry. Guanidine dendrons of the first generation correspond to molecules with just one ramification, and dendrons of the second generation have a second ramification above the first one.

In contrast with domestic wastewater, industrial effluents frequently carry chemical contaminants that are not removed with conventional treatments. Typical contaminants include inorganic anions, such as perchlorate, nitrate, phosphate, and arsenate, which harm people’s health. Around 200 million people worldwide are exposed to arsenate concentrations that exceed the recommended limit. For example, this is a problem in some States in Western USA, like California, Nevada, or Wyoming. Other countries with this same problem are Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, and Mexico in Latin America, and Bangladesh, Cambodia, India, Nepal, and Vietnam in Asia. Using microparticles and nanoparticles in environmental applications, specifically in the remediation of industrial and mining wastewater, represent several advantages, such as economic viability, and being non-toxic and highly efficient. The present technology represents a method and a device to remediate those waters, through anion removal, particularly arsenates, nitrates, and phosphates.

Applications

Water remediation

Desired business relationship

Patent licensing

Joint ventures

Technology development