Adsorptive micellar flocculation (surfactant-based phase separation technique): Theory and applications

This review provides an overall description of Adsorptive Micellar Flocculation (AMF) with an emphasis on water and wastewater treatment. This extractive separation technique is based on the use of anionic surfactants and flocculants (di-valent (M2+) or tri-valent (M3+) salt) to entrap and adsorb the hazardous organic pollutants. The unique amphiphilic structure of surfactant molecules, micelle forming property, and their ability to interact with other reagents have been evaluated and discussed. Significance and expressions of calculated parameters are summarized. Furthermore, possible mechanistic pathways and novel developments are described stepwise. Work done on different pollutants with the type of surfactant and flocculant used has also been outlined. Special attention is laid on discussing the effect of different parameters on the efficiency of the process. Results of recent experiments make it evident that about 90% removal efficiency is achievable by AMF. Finally, we have discussed the potential advantages and highlighted the most suitable conditions for better performing this technique. (C) 2020 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

This review provides an overview of Adsorptive Micellar Flocculation (AMF) technology for water and wastewater treatment, focusing on the use of anionic surfactants and flocculants to remove organic pollutants. The unique amphiphilic structure of surfactant molecules and their interaction mechanisms are discussed, along with the significance of calculated parameters. Experimental results have shown that AMF can achieve around 90% removal efficiency.