Application of Nanotechnology in Water Research

Chapter 15

Multifunctional Silver, Copper and Zero Valent Iron Metallic Nanoparticles for Wastewater Treatment

S.C.G. Kiruba Daniel¹, S. Malathi², S. Balasubramanian², M. Sivakumar¹ and T. Anitha Sironmani*^{, 3}

¹Division of Nanoscience and Technology, Anna University, BIT Campus, Tiruchirappalli, India

²Department of Inorganic Chemistry, Maraimalai Campus, University of Madras, Chennai, India

³Department of Genetic Engineering, School of Biotechnology, Madurai Kamaraj University, Madurai, India

*Corresponding author: [e-mail]

Abstract

With the advent of different nanomaterials, nanotechnology plays a key role in water treatment. Metal nanoparticles, especially silver, copper and zero valent iron nanoparticles, have the properties of microbe inactivation and heavy metal removal. In this chapter we will be focusing on the role of hybrid metallic copper, silver and iron nanoparticles in wastewater treatment due to their ability for antimicrobial activities and removal of various pollutants. In our previous studies we have treated wastewater, textile and tannery effluents using such multifunctional hybrid nanoparticles. We will also be discussing the existing multifunctional metal nanoparticle products available for wastewater treatment and new variations being made by researchers around the world.

Keywords: Silver nanoparticles, copper nanoparticles, zero-valent iron nanoparticles, multifunctional metallic nanoparticles, wastewater treatment, effluent treatment, microbe ...