University of Aveiro Researchers Develop Water Purifier from Industrial Waste
Researchers at the University of Aveiro developed 3D-printed filters from bauxite refining waste (red mud) that removed over 90% of the antibiotic ciprofloxacin within one hour under UV light. The work demonstrates a functional application for carbon nanotubes in photocatalytic water treatment using industrial byproducts, with the material retaining performance across multiple decontamination cycles.
Researchers at the University of Aveiro have developed a novel water purification material using industrial waste. This material integrates carbon nanotubes and titanium dioxide to facilitate photocatalytic reactions under ultraviolet light, effectively removing pollutants from water.
The team utilized red mud, a byproduct of bauxite refining, to create three-dimensional structures through 3D printing. These structures serve as advanced filters, demonstrating the potential of carbon nanotubes in environmental applications.
The material achieved over 90 percent removal of the antibiotic ciprofloxacin within one hour and completely eliminated it in 30 minutes. The system maintains its decontamination capacity over multiple cycles and is effective in complex contaminant mixtures.
This study emphasizes waste valorization and the circular economy, offering sustainable solutions for water treatment. Researchers involved include Nuno Gonçalves, Ricardo Silva, Tito Trindade, and Rui Novais from the Department of Chemistry and the Aveiro Institute of Materials (CICECO).
Source: Carbon Nanotubes Feed