NIT Rourkela researchers develop advanced wastewater treatment technology

Researchers at the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Rourkela have developed an innovative process for efficiently treating industrial wastewater contaminated with persistent dyes like Bismarck Brown R. 

The research, led by Prof. Sujit Sen from the Department of Chemical Engineering, in collaboration with Dr. Madhumita Manna and Prof. Binay Kanti Dutta, integrates nanocomposite-based ceramic membranes with microbubble technology for enhanced dye removal.

Supported by the Science and Engineering Research Board, now Anusandhan National Research Foundation, India, the research has been published in the Journal of Environmental Chemical Engineering and has also secured a patent (Patent No. 542891).

Industrial wastewater, particularly from textile and dye industries, often contains harmful dyes that are difficult to filter using conventional methods. The newly developed system integrates a ceramic membrane coated with an industrial-waste-derived Zeolite and Zinc Oxide nanocomposite. This photocatalyst breaks down dye molecules when exposed to light. Additionally, microbubbles generated through an air diffuser enhance mass transfer, accelerating the breakdown process.

According to Prof. Sujit Sen, "Our hybrid system achieved 95.4% decolorization of Bismarck Brown R and 94% removal of chemical oxygen demand (COD) in just 90 minutes, making it a viable solution for wastewater treatment."

This hybrid system offers an efficient and cost-effective alternative to traditional oxidation techniques, reducing reliance on expensive chemicals and complex equipment. The membrane is also resistant to fouling and can be easily regenerated, ensuring long-term usability.

With potential applications in textile, steel, petrochemical, and pharmaceutical industries, the team is now focused on scaling up the technology for broader industrial implementation to promote sustainable wastewater treatment solutions.