Synthesis and application of silver-doped glass waste pellets for drinking water treatment
摘要
The increasing contamination of water resources by pathogens and heavy metals poses a significant threat to public health, particularly in regions with limited access to clean water. This study presents an innovative and sustainable solution by developing glassy pellets doped with silver for water treatment. The pellets are synthesized from recycled obsolete glassware, crushed, and mixed with a binder and Styrofoam, creating a porous structure that enhances adsorption and antimicrobial efficiency. A key differentiator of this research is the dual benefit of waste valorization, which transforms laboratory glass waste into a functional material while addressing critical water purification needs. The results demonstrate the pellets’ ability to eliminate pathogenic microorganisms (below the Limit of detection) and reduce chemical contaminants, such as iron (from 0.56 to 0.13 mg/L), and nitrates, while maintaining water quality within regulatory standards. Additionally, the pellets’ cost-effectiveness and scalability make them particularly suitable for low-income communities, aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals. This research advances water treatment technologies and contributes to environmental sustainability by repurposing waste materials. Its potential to improve water quality and public health, especially in areas with low Human Development Index (HDI), underscores its global relevance and transformative impact. This study offers a promising global model for addressing water scarcity and contamination challenges by combining innovation, sustainability, and practicality. However, this preliminary study did not assess silver leaching, toxicity, or long-term stability, which remain important limitations and will be addressed in future work as resources become available.
Graphical Abstract