Shrimp-shell biopolymers clean wastewater

A combination of chitosan (derived from crustacean shells) and dendrimer nanostructure produces a bioadsorbent that has been shown to be very effective in removing dye from textile wastewater, according to researchers at the Amirkabir University of Technology and the Institute for Color Science and Technology in Tehran, Iran. Parameters that affect the dye-removal process include pH, dye concentration, time and temperature of contact. The new biopolymer could remove anionic compounds, such as reactive dyes, from industry wastewater. The adsorbent is biodegradable, biocompatible and nontoxic, making it a promising method for reducing health and environmental impacts of textile industry wastewater.