Objectives

To achieve the project aim, the following objectives were set:

• Synthesis and characterization of minerals amorphous precursors, such as calcium carbonates and iron oxyhydroxides in the absence and in the presence of organic/chelating agents and their application to water treatment are the main objectives of the project. The project aims to bring insights into amorphous nano mineral precursors stabilization partially or totally by using inoffensive organic chelation agents which will act as stabilizers, structure scaffolding, size and morphology controllers, and also as potential surface functioning. Materials characterization of the end product will be assessed and the materials with the best surface properties will be used for the environmental applications.

• Kinetic studies of nanoparticle formation and transformation will be carried out to derive information about transformation rates which will determine the effect of organic/chelating agents on nanoparticles stability and will further have implications on pollutants sequestration time frame.

• Adsorption studies of organic and inorganic pollutants onto materials proved to have superior surface properties will be carried out. Aiming for materials with higher surface properties, that will lead to efficient removal of pollutants, the project will also consider product reusability in multiple adsorption cycles.

• Environmental applications on real effluents of the most efficient lab-based well-characterized and tested sorbent by-products.

• The proposed research is also intended to open new perspectives for personal/professional development of the research team involved as well as be an opportunity for exchange of knowledge.

Summary

The importance of project idea and investigation from scientific, technologic, and socio-economic viewpoints consist of the production of highly absorptive nanomaterials as potential engineered products, scientifically and technically well characterized and understood (from structural, surface and physical and chemical properties points of view) and tested (at laboratory scale) for applications in eco-friendly wastewaters depollution technologies.             

Environmental and socio-economic wise, the potential use of these easily available, affordable, reusable and nontoxic materials in appropriate technologies will contribute to a cleaner and safer environment.

Additionally, the project is intended to meet the funding call objectives that are: 

• increasing the number of researchers and training generations open to the European and international scientific environment, in accordance with the objectives of the European Research Area;

• increasing the attractiveness of the research career by creating an institutional framework similar to that of research organizations in developed countries (career promotion based on ethics and performance);

• improving the performance of research groups, etc.