Surface Modification of Carbonaceous Adsorbents for Removal of Nitrate from Water

Abstract Excessive amount of nitrate in water has been a major environmental problem in recent decades. Although various techniques have been applied to remove this pollutant from water, adsorption method is widely practiced due to its ease of use and cost effectiveness. Among various adsorbents, carbonaceous adsorbents are specifically important because of their high porosity, chemical stability and facile preparation. To enhance the adsorption of nitrate anion, the surface of carbonaceous adsorbent should often be modified properly due to their nature and Nitrate structure. There are various methods for surface modification of these adsorbents. The present paper reviews the most effective surface modification techniques.