Optimizing Removal Condition of CBP Precarsures in Water Resources by Activated Nano-Carbon and Nano Zeolite Using Taguchi Method

Humic acid plays a main role in formation of carcinogenic chlorinated by-products (CBPs). The aim of this study was determination of optimum conditions for removal of humic acid by using nano activated carbon and surfectant modified natural nano zeolite (SMNZ) in Isfahan Babasheikhali water treatment plant.
This experimental study was performed on a laboratory scale in batch reactors. Water samples were taken from Isfahan Babasheikhali water treatment plant. Design of the experiments was set using Taguchi method implemented by Minitab 15 software to reduce costs. In order to determine optimum conditions for removal of humic acid, activated nano carbon and surfactant modified Nano clinoptilolite zeolite (SMNZ) of smaller than 100 nm were used.
XRD images confirmed changes in surface charge distribution of nano zeolite. Based on the signal to noise ratio, the optimal conditions obtained to remove >99% of humic acid were: pH=5, contact time=2 hours, stirring speed = 250 rpm, pollutant concentration= 50 ppm and adsorbent dosage=0.2 g/l. ANOVA statistical test showed a significant difference between the contaminant removal efficiency of SMNZ and activated nano carbon (p This study showed that SMNZ could have better potential than active nano carbon for removing humic acid. SMNZ has ability to minimize CBPs through removing humic acid and reducing SUVA index.