Thu03282024

Last updateThu, 29 Feb 2024 11am

Back You are here: Inicio Environment Technological offers Obtained a bionanohybrid material for quick removal of organic pollutants

Obtained a bionanohybrid material for quick removal of organic pollutants

Scientists from the Institute of Catalysis and Petrochemistry (ICP-CSIC) have synthesized a bionanohybrid material, composed of an enzyme and an iron carbonate nanorods structure. It allows the complete elimination of organic pollutants in extremely short times.

TEM Image (Transmission Electron Microscopy) of the FeCO 3 nanorods in the bionanohibrid materialThe catalyst is used in bioremediation processes in the petrochemical, chemical and pharmaceutical industries. It can also be used for the elimination of Bisphenol-A (BPA) from plastic bottles, or in other types of chemical reactions, although it is still in the testing phase.

The solution is obtained by using iron carbonate nanorods which are synthesized organically in an aqueous medium and at room temperature. It is the first time that a highly active, stable and reusable nanocatalyst is achieved through a "green" technology.

Because of the magnetic properties of the nanohybrid material, it is possible to easily recover the catalyst with a magnet from the contaminated medium.

Degradations of the pollutants p-nitrophenol and p-aminophenol were accomplished in less than two minutes

Tests were performed for two common organic pollutants, p-nitrophenol and p-aminophenol. Results showed that effective degradation is achieved in less than two minutes. In addition, the catalyst is very stable against oxidation, and it can be stored for months.

The study, led by José Miguel Palomo Carmona, from the Instituto de Catálisis y Petroleoquímica (ICP-CSIC), offers a viable and sustainable alternative for the elimination of organic pollutants which stands out as a extremely fast catalyst for degrading organic pollutants. Companies interested in its use under license are sought.

Contact:

Sara Junco Corujedo
Instituto de Catálisis y Petroleoquímica
Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC)
Tel.: 915854633
Correo-e: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.