Activated Carbons for Arsenic Removal from Natural Waters and Wastewaters: A Review

The arsenic pollution of waters and wastewaters is concerning many countries across the world, and because of the effects of arsenic on human health, its removal from waters is of great importance. Adsorption using functionalized activated carbons as a technique for the removal of arsenic from water streams has gained great attention. In the present review, we summarize synthesis technologies, the characterization of materials and arsenic removal capacity, and we clarify the parameters which play a critical role in the removal of arsenic, such as the pH value of the water, the active group in the functionalization and temperature. The review article concludes that most of the experimental data fit both Langmuir and Freundlich isotherms. In this review, the recyclability and reuse of the materials are also reported, and the findings show that for both arsenite and arsenate, even after several adsorption cycles, the material can be further used as an efficient adsorbent for arsenic removal.

Automated summary

Arsenic pollution in waters and wastewaters is a global concern due to its impact on human health. The use of functionalized activated carbons as an adsorption technique for arsenic removal has gained attention. Key parameters affecting arsenic removal include water pH, active groups in functionalization, and temperature, with most experimental data fitting Langmuir and Freundlich isotherms. The materials show recyclability and efficiency even after multiple adsorption cycles for both arsenite and arsenate, highlighting their potential for sustainable arsenic removal.