Chromium Removal with Environmentally Friendly Iron Nanoparticles in a Pilot Scale Study

• Published in: Bulletin of environmental contamination and toxicology 2018-12, Vol.101 (6), p.705-710
• Main Authors: Mystrioti, Christiana, Toli, Aikaterini, Papasiopi, Nymphodora, Dermatas, Dimitris, Thimi, Sofia
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Aquatic Pollution; Aquifers; Chromium; Chromium - chemistry; Contaminants; Earth and Environmental Science; Ecotoxicology; Electrical resistivity; Environment; Environmental Chemistry; Environmental Health; Environmental Restoration and Remediation - methods; Groundwater - chemistry; Immobilization; Iron; Iron - chemistry; Metal Nanoparticles; Nanoparticles; Pilot Projects; Pollutants; Pollution; Redox potential; Soil - chemistry; Soil contamination; Soil Science & Conservation; Waste Water Technology; Water Management; Water Pollutants, Chemical - analysis; Water pollution; Water Pollution Control
• ISSN: 0007-4861; 1432-0800
• DOI: 10.1007/s00128-018-2424-3

Nano zero valent iron (nZVI) is highly reactive, targets a wide range of contaminants and is considered as a promising material for the in situ remediation of contaminated aquifers. Injection of nZVI suspension is a remedial option for the in-situ reduction and immobilization of pollutants in aquifers. The goal of the present study was to evaluate the efficiency of iron nanoparticles (GT-nZVI), synthesised by a green synthesis route, for Cr(VI) removal in a pilot scale application. A tank with dimensions 2.5 m (width) × 3.75 m (length) × 1.5 m (height) was constructed and filled with 24 tons of soil. Firstly 3 m 3 GT-nZVI suspension was injected and then the supply of contaminated water containing 5 mg/L Cr(VI) was initiated. Samples were analysed for pH, redox potential and electric conductivity, as well as Fe tot and Cr(VI). The reactive zone operated efficiently for the treatment of contaminated water for 1 year.