Mechanisms and application of magnetic field enhancing pollutant adsorption in water: A review

• Published in: Separation and purification technology 2025-04, Vol.356, p.129938, Article 129938
• Main Authors: Ding, Ning, Wang, Yiyang, Shen, Zheting, Liu, Hong, Li, Yujiao, Sun, Yingxue
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Adsorption; Kelvin force; Lorentz force; Magnetic field; Magnetization; Magnetocaloric effect
• ISSN: 1383-5866
• DOI: 10.1016/j.seppur.2024.129938

[Display omitted] As an external physical field with unique properties, magnetic field application in water and wastewater treatment has been long. In recent years, studies have reported that magnetic fields effectively improve adsorption process, increasing the adsorption capacity and/or adsorption kinetics of pollutants. This article systematically reviewed the recent research progress on magnetic field enhanced adsorption, discussing the work modes of magnetic fields, types of magnetic adsorbents, the mechanisms involved during the process, and their application for removing heavy metals, other inorganic pollutants, and organic pollutants. It comprehensively analyzed the mechanisms of magnetization, Lorentz force, Kelvin force, and magnetocaloric effect to the adsorption process, and elucidated the specific property changes of the solution, adsorbate, and adsorbents which contributed to the enhancement pollutant adsorption. Compared with static magnetic (megnetostatic) fields, time-varying (electro) magnetic fields (i.e. rotating magnetic field) could further enhance the mobility and mass transfer of the adsorbents and pollutants. However, a few challenges to their promotion and application exist, such as low energy efficiency and less flexibility of mechanically driven magnetic fields, and the complicated configuration of adaptable electro-time-varying magnetic fields. In addition, research gaps existed on application of magnetic field-assisted pollutant adsorption under a competitive environment. This review aims to provide an in-depth understanding of magnetic field effects on pollutant adsorption and shed light on adsorption enhancement through rational design of magnetic field-adsorption system for future development and application.