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The Impact of Green Technology on Sorption Processes

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Ijeoma J. Ani, Uduak G. Akpan, Ezeh E. Mbamalu and Chinedu T. Egbosiuba

Submitted: 08 February 2024 Reviewed: 22 February 2024 Published: 03 May 2024

DOI: 10.5772/intechopen.1005286

Sorption - New Perspectives and Applications IntechOpen
Sorption - New Perspectives and Applications Edited by Karmen Margeta

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Sorption - New Perspectives and Applications [Working Title]

Dr. Karmen Margeta and Dr. Anamarija Farkaš

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Abstract

Sorption is the collective term used for both adsorption and absorption. Absorption involves the diffusion of molecules of a substance into a material due to the material’s ability to dissolve the substance, while adsorption involves the attachment of molecules of a substance to a material surface. Sorption has been gaining significant attention in recent years as a promising separation technique because it is simple, efficient, and low-cost. Some new perspectives and applications of sorption are Sorption in Nanotechnology, water treatment, gas separation and Medicine and Biotechnology. Sorption is a promising alternative to traditional separation methods, which have significant economic and environmental drawbacks. Sorption can serve numerous applications across various sectors, including industry, medicine, and energy. This technique is easy to execute, energy-efficient, and economical, and has the potential to develop sustainable solutions through resource recycling, green technology and waste reduction. In this chapter, we discussed the impact of green technology on sorption processes, recent developments and the challenges that needs more research that can proffer solution and make sorption processes more reliable and attractive.

Keywords

  • adsorption
  • absorption
  • wastewater treatment
  • green technology
  • nanotechnology
  • sorption processes

1. Introduction

By IUPAC (1997/2019) definition, sorption is “The process by which a substance (sorbate) is sorbed (adsorbed or absorbed) on or in another substance (sorbent).” For adsorption, the International Adsorption Society (IAS, 2019) indicates that it is “The use of solids for removing substances from either gaseous or liquid solutions, and involves the preferential partitioning of substances from the gaseous or liquid phase onto the active part of a solid substrate” [1]. This process has been employed since eighteenth century [2], to proffer solutions to various environmental pollution challenges.

Pollutants from human activities, industries, pose a severe threat to humans and the eco-system. With the global increase in population, more pollution is encountered in various sectors which requires urgent and effective method for ablation of the pollutants. Industrial emissions are one of the primary air pollutants and waste fumes produced from several activities which can cause crisis to individual health and ecological damage [3]. Industrial air have volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and volatile inorganic compounds (VICs) which can cause odor and this problem is encountered in various industrial sectors such as petro-refineries, latex processing, bulk drug and pharmaceuticals, tanneries, waste treatment plants, poultry farms, and fish processing facilities [3]. These challenges can be successfully removed by sorption processes that are sustainable via green technology.

Absorption method can be used for the removal/control of gaseous pollutants. These pollutants could be acidic (hydrochloric acid, sulfuric acid, hydrogen sulfide), organic (Ethylene, Benzene, Ethanol, and many other volatile organic compounds [VOCs] or hazardous air pollutants [HAPs]. It involves the transfer of a gaseous pollutant from the air into a contacting liquid, such as water. The liquid must be able either to serve as a solvent for the pollutant or to capture it by means of a chemical reaction. On the other hand, adsorption, which is the separation process of guest molecules from the environment to the bulk or surface of the solid [4], involves the capture of the gaseous substance on an active part of an adsorbent.

Green technology is a term used to describe environmentally friendly processes and products that have a minimal impact on the environment. Adsorption is one of the most steadfast techniques employed as it is simple in operation, and cost-effective. Also, this technique provides a wider choice of material sources known as adsorbents which can be rationally designed to suit the application. To this degree, nature provides a greener choice of several adsorbents which are readily available and do not require high-end synthetic processes. These green sorbents are inclusive of natural materials, biomaterials, or biosorbents, carbonaceous materials from wastes, agricultural, and industrial by-products [5]. Another example of a green technology that uses absorption is absorption chillers. These chillers use water as the refrigerant, which makes them environmentally friendly and sustainable. Also, absorption method can be applied on CO2 capture using green technology [6], likewise hydrogen production.

In recent research, nanotechnology has emerged as one of the most interesting areas due to its significant impact which is quite effective in sorption processes. Green technology has been applied for the production of nano-materials for various applications which is sustainable. It has been applied intensively in adsorption process with high efficiency, especially for the eradication of pollutants wastewater [7, 8, 9]. Preparation of nanomaterials using green technology is attractive due to their environmental and biocompatible features enabled by the use biological wastes, microorganisms, and different plant materials such as leaves, roots, and flowers [9]. In nanotechnology applications, the biomolecules serve as a reducing and stabilizing agent in the green production of nanomaterials [10]. For instance, magnetic nanohybrid adsorbent (ZnCoFe2O4@Chitosan (Ch)) was successfully synthesized for tetracycline adsorption [11]. CuMn2O4 nanostructures was synthesized using onions as the capping agent which helped to achieve the nanomaterials [12]. Thus, nanotechnology has paved way for a sustainable development in sorption processes with the application of green technology.

This chapter encompasses the recent trend in the sorption processes that have created opportunities for sustainable development.

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2. Sorption processes

Sorption is a process that involves the adsorption and absorption of substances onto a solid or liquid surface. Adsorption refers to the attachment of molecules or ions from a gas or liquid onto the active part of a solid material [13]. The adsorption on the solid surface is that the molecules or atoms on the solid surface have residual surface energy due to unbalanced forces. When some substances undergo collision with solid surface, they are attracted by these unbalanced forces and stay on the solid surface [14]. The adsorbate molecules are held onto the surface by weak van der Waals forces or electrostatic interactions. Absorption, on the other hand, involves the uptake of a substance into the bulk of a solid or liquid material. This occurs when the absorbate molecules penetrate the surface of the absorbent and become incorporated within its structure. Adsorption can involve physical processes, such as diffusion into pores or interstitial spaces, or chemical reactions with the adsorbent material [15].

The sorption process can be used for various applications, including purification, separation, and storage of substances. For example, activated carbon is commonly used as an adsorbent material in water treatment processes to remove contaminants which have been deeply researched on. Sorption processes is equally applicable in gas separation, where specific adsorbents are used to selectively adsorb certain gases from a mixture. This is commonly seen in processes such as natural gas purification or carbon dioxide capture [16, 17, 18]. In drug delivery system, sorption technology is applicable [19]. It can be used to inject medicinal substance into the sorbent under the conditions of reversibility of the process and desorption of the medicinal substance into the organism. The sorbent is pre-saturated with the necessary medicinal substance and the system is used in the desorption mode [19]. Bio-materials can be used for drug delivery system [20] likewise other materials such as activated carbon, mineral sorbents, and polymers.

Materials used for sorption processes are cost effective, likewise the application of the material. Agricultural waste and a lot of biomaterials can be used for the production of adsorbent which is a sustainable. Also, natural clays or which are abundant in nature are good absorbent. The natural clay such as kaolinite can be modified to produce adsorbents such as zeolite which has proven so effective for sorption processes in the works that have been reported [21, 22, 23]. The natural clay can be used directly for adsorption processes or it can be activated to improve its activities as an adsorbent. This green technology adaptation in sorption process helps to cob challenges such as environmental hazards during chemical production of adsorbent, expensive chemicals for adsorbent production, instability of adsorbent.

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3. Green technology for sustainable development

Green technology is an umbrella term that captures any technology that is created to be environmentally friendly from its production line all the way to its usage [24]. Also, it is known as sustainable technology or clean technology for the development and application of innovative solutions that minimize the negative impact on the environment while promoting sustainable development. It aims to address environmental challenges and create a more sustainable future by reducing resource consumption, minimizing pollution, and promoting renewable energy sources.

Green technology covers a wide range of sectors and industries, including energy, transportation, waste management, agriculture, and construction. Some examples of green technologies include but not limited to the following [25, 26, 27]:

  1. Renewable energy: Technologies that harness energy from renewable sources such as solar, wind, hydro, and geothermal power, likewise biomass and biofuels. These technologies help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and dependence on fossil fuels.

  2. Energy efficiency: Technologies that improve energy efficiency in buildings, appliances, and industrial processes. This includes energy-efficient lighting, insulation, smart grids, and energy management systems.

  3. Waste management: Technologies that promote recycling, waste reduction, and waste-to-energy conversion. This includes recycling facilities, composting systems, and anaerobic digestion for organic waste.

  4. Sustainable transportation: Technologies that reduce emissions and promote sustainable modes of transportation. This includes electric vehicles, hybrid vehicles, public transportation systems, and bike-sharing programs.

  5. Water and air purification: Technologies that clean and purify water and air, reducing pollution and improving public health. This includes water filtration systems, air purifiers, and wastewater treatment plants.

  6. Sustainable agriculture: Technologies that promote sustainable farming practices, reduce chemical inputs, and improve resource efficiency.

3.1 Green technology in sorption processes: it’s new perspectives

One of the areas green technologies is applicable is the sorption process, which involves the removal of contaminants from wastewater, air, and gas streams. This process has gained much attention due to its potential to reduce pollution and safeguard human health. Green technology in sorption processes involves the use of sustainable, eco-friendly materials and methods for the removal of contaminants or for separation processes. This is the new perspective in our today sorption processes.

One of the green technologies that have shown great promise in sorption processes is the use of biochar. Biochar is a carbon-rich product that is derived from the pyrolysis of organic material, such as agricultural waste, manure, and wood chips. Biochar has a high surface area, which allows it to adsorb pollutants efficiently. Moreover, the use of biochar is environmentally friendly, as it reduces greenhouse gas emissions and mitigates climate change. A lot of reports have been made on the use of biochar for sorption processes [28, 29, 30]. However, biochar can post threats to the environment if not properly managed after use.

In addition to the use of sustainable sorbents, green technology in sorption also involves the use of renewable energy for the regeneration of sorbents. Lu et al. [31] successfully designed a Solar energy-triggered regenerative bionic fiber adsorbent for CO2 capture through bionic electrostatic and chemical cross-linking assembly of cellulose nanofibers, thermosensitive polymer poly (N-isopropylacrylamide), nano-graphene oxide, and polyethyleneimine. The material was used for the regeneration of adsorbent used for CO2 capture. Regeneration is an essential process in sorption as it allows the sorbents to be reused. The use of renewable energy sources, such as solar energy for the regeneration process reduces the environmental impact of sorption processes and contributes to sustainable development.

Green technologies in sorption processes offer new perspectives for managing environmental concerns using sustainable and environmentally friendly methods. Researchers have developed new generation sorbents and sorption technologies that demonstrate selective adsorption of pollutants. These materials have enabled the effective removal of toxic and harmful pollutants from various streams while also producing less waste and reducing energy costs.

One notable development in green sorption technologies is the development of innovative adsorbents which are biodegradable and can be naturally derived. These adsorbents include biomass derived from algae, agricultural residues, and food waste, among others [32, 33, 34]. They have been shown to be effective in the removal of various pollutants and are highly efficient as compared to conventional sorbents. In absorption processes, green technology has been used for the production of membrane for CO2 absorption [35]. Huang et al. [36] researched on the green preparation of hollow fiber membrane which can be used for gas separation using absorption process. Figure 1 presents a sustainable utilization of adsorption materials for wastewater treatment.

Figure 1.

Green technology; a sustainable utilization of adsorbent for wastewater treatment. (Source: Ref. [37]).

Table 1 presents recent sorbents that are sustainable. It can be observed that green technology, which is a sustainable development, was applied for the development of the adsorbents. Most authors reported to have developed a biodegradable adsorbent with a renewable nature which offers sustainable solutions to address water pollution and contaminants. However, it could still take a long time before it can degrade. The method of synthesis of these adsorbents and the materials used for the synthesis are mostly cost-effective and eco-friendly. Also, stable adsorbents are being development which is beneficial for the economy. Phytochemicals from plants and other natural sources are used for the synthesis of nano-adsorbents which are in abundant and eco-friendly. It can be seen that most recent bio-adsorbent has high adsorption capacity which is commendable. The phytochemicals act as the capping or reducing agent which leads to the development of a nano-adsorbent.

AdsorbentBio-sourceAdsorption capacity (mg/g)pollutantRemarkReference
Hyphaene thebaica derived-biochar (HTBC)Egyptian doum palm264.922Methyl orange dye (MO)Biodegradable adsorbent was successfully synthesized.[38]
Curdlan/sodium carboxymethylcellulose composite (CURD/CMC)Curdlan385.85Methylene blue (MB)Biodegradable, observed synergistic effect between CURD and CMC with better performance.[39]
Green nano-magnetic/biochar (BC) composite (nM-BC)Tamarindus Indica fruit seedBC; MB(3.055), malachite green (MG) (5.577). nM-BC; MB(3.326), MG (20.408)MB and MGAdsorbent easy to recover and it is reusable. Ability to adsorb both anionic and cationic dyes[40]
Membrane polymeric adsorbentBreadfruit, or Artocarpus altilis176.25Crystal violet (CV)Biodegradable adsorbent. Reusable up to four cycles tested without any significant decrease in efficiency[41]
Carbohydrate polymeric adsorbentsrice flour (RF) and graham flour (GF)173.24(RF) and 151.27(GF)MOBiodegradable adsorbent, reusable and stable, The competing ions were not adversely affected in the dye adsorption as defined by the stable bonding mechanism[42]
UV-photopolymerized cassava starch-based superabsorbent hydrogelsCassava starch (CSt) and polyacrylic acid (PAA)1044MBbiodegradable, low-cost, and effective adsorbent. Excellent adsorption capacity. Also reusable with good biosafety[43]
Sodium alginate-modified alkali-activated eggshell/Fe3O4 nanoparticlesEggshell332.57–256.62(CV) and 304.47–240.62(MB)CV, MBEasy to recover from the solution and it is reusable[44]
All-biopolymer self-assembling hydrogel filmchitosan and carboxymethyl guar gum155.51Cu2+ ionsAn eco-friendly bio-adsorbent, sustainable, and efficient. Also, it is reusable[45]
Fungi/MCM-41 bio-based adsorbentNaturally available fungal wastes94.75%, 60 min, 20 mg/L, 1.67 g/LReactive Red 120 (RR120)A biocompatible, environmentally friendly, and inexpensive adsorbent was successfully synthesized which was effective. Also, the fungi is abundant in nature[46]
Ceria (CeO2) and areca nut shell biochar (CB) compositeSaccharum officinarum extract as a solvent/capping agent492.2MBPlant extract was use for the synthesis of the adsorbent which served as a capping and reducing agent[47]
Modified magnetitegaharu leaf extract—MOThe plant extract helped to modify the magnetite which improved the adsorption capacity. The adsorbent is reusable[48]
Green functionalized magnetic graphene oxide—586SilverNano-adsorbent was successfully synthesized which enhanced the performance of the adsorbent[49]
Chitosan/functionalized fruit stonesFruit stones409.63brilliant green (BG) dyeRemarkable adsorption capacity[50]

Table 1.

Bio-adsorbents for sorption processes.

Another green technology that has gained attention in sorption processes is nanotechnology which happens to be among the fasted growing field for innovative development. Nanomaterials are tiny particles that have unique structural and chemical properties, which make them highly effective in the removal of contaminants. One example of such material is graphene oxide [51], which has shown great potential for the removal of organic pollutants from wastewater. The use of nanomaterials is also beneficial as it reduces the amount of sorbent needed, thus reducing waste generation.

3.2 Nanotechnology

Nanotechnology has been one of the most attractive research areas in most recent time due to its significant in sorption processes in respect to green technology. It is a field of science and technology that deals with the manipulation and control of matter at the nanoscale, which is the scale of atoms and molecules [52]. It involves the design, synthesis, characterization, and application of materials and devices with unique properties and functionalities at the nanoscale. In the context of green technology and sustainable development, nanotechnology offers several potential benefits such as energy efficiency, pollution prevention, waste reduction, environmental monitoring, and sustainable agriculture. In this chapter, we are more concern with nanotechnology on sorption processes.

3.3 Nanotechnology for sorption processes

Nanotechnology has the potential to revolutionize green technology by offering innovative solutions for various environmental challenges. Water purification: Nanotechnology offers advanced filtration and purification techniques for water treatment. Nanomaterials, such as graphene oxide and nanofibers, can effectively remove contaminants, including heavy metals, organic pollutants, and bacteria, from water. Nanotechnology-based membranes and adsorbents can provide high water permeability and selectivity, improving the efficiency of water purification processes. Recent research has shown magnificent effect of nanomaterial on the eradication of pollutants via adsorption processes. Cola nitida leave extract was used to synthesize green iron oxide nanaoparticles for the adsorption of dye pollutants [9]. Psidium guajava leaves extract was utilized to synthesize green nickel oxide nanoparticles (PG-NiONPs) [10]. Yahya et al. [53] investigated the characterization, preparation and application of organoclay nano-adsorbent for the removal of pollutants from wastewater. They concluded that the Organoclay could be considered a cheap and efficient adsorbent for the removal of most of the chemical pollutants from wastewater that could be of socioeconomic and environmental relevance. Also, a magnetic polyacrylonitrile-melamine nano-adsorbent (PAN-Mel@Fe3O4) has been developed as a polymer-based adsorbent for the adsorption of cadmium (Cd) and lead (Pb) from aqueous media [54]. Thus, nanotechnology has made remarkable impact in our society. The green technology has tackled the expensive method of nano-adsorbent production. However, during application, agglomeration of the nano-adsorbent may be observed which could reduce the effectiveness of the material. Also, it is possible to have some nano-adsorbent left in the treated effluent/water which is not favorable to the eco-system. Figure 2 depicts nano-adsorbents and their applications.

Figure 2.

Nanosorbents and their application (Source: Ref. [55]).

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4. Sorption applications

Sorption processes, have various applications in different fields. Here are some examples:

  1. Water treatment: Sorption processes are widely used in water treatment to remove contaminants from drinking water or wastewater. Green synthesized adsorbent has been used for the removal of all kinds of pollutants from water which have been reported [56].

  2. Air purification: Sorption processes are employed in air purification systems to remove pollutants and improve indoor air quality. Activated carbon filters are commonly used to adsorb volatile organic compounds (VOCs), odors, and other harmful gases. Zeolites and molecular sieves can also be used to selectively adsorb specific gases, such as carbon dioxide or nitrogen oxides.

  3. Gas separation: Sorption processes are utilized in gas separation applications, such as natural gas purification and carbon capture. Adsorbents, such as activated carbon or zeolites, can selectively adsorb certain gases, allowing for the separation and purification of gas mixtures. This is particularly important in industries like natural gas processing and biogas upgrading.

  4. Drug delivery: Sorption processes play a crucial role in drug delivery systems. Porous materials, such as mesoporous silica or polymer nanoparticles, can be used as carriers for drug molecules.

Development of a sustainable route for H2 production with low carbon emission is an urgent area of research to abate the high release of CO2 during H2 [57]. Recent findings has shown a sustainable development for the production of pure H2 without emitting CO2 into the atmosphere via Sorption-enhanced steam reforming of bio-ethanol (SESRE) and sorption enhanced steam reforming of bio-glycerol (SESRG) [57]. This is one of the new dimensions in recent time on sorption processes which is promising.

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5. Conclusion

In conclusion, green technology in sorption processes has the potential to revolutionize the field of pollutant removal. The use of sustainable, eco-friendly sorbents such as biochar and nanomaterials, coupled with the use of renewable energy sources for sorbent regeneration, can significantly reduce environmental impact and protect human health. The adoption of green technologies in sorption processes, therefore, presents an opportunity for the transition toward more sustainable and environmentally responsible practices. The development of innovative sorbent materials and sorption technologies has shown great potential for sustainable and environmentally friendly solutions that produce less waste and reduce energy costs. The adoption of green sorption technologies, therefore, offers new possibilities for addressing environmental concerns. However, regeneration of adsorbent needs proper study to make it more cost-effective, environmentally friendly. Also, the biodegradability of adsorbents should be considered as an area of interest to ascertain the duration of the degradation process.

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Written By

Ijeoma J. Ani, Uduak G. Akpan, Ezeh E. Mbamalu and Chinedu T. Egbosiuba

Submitted: 08 February 2024 Reviewed: 22 February 2024 Published: 03 May 2024

© The Author(s). Licensee IntechOpen. This chapter is distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.