Cellulosic nanomaterials for adsorption of emerging pollutants

Context: At present, nanotechnology can be used in multiple areas of action which, due to its nature, can be implemented with great versatility, given that many advances in nanotechnology base their studies on how to optimize daily and industrial processes and how to favor the environment. In addition, the manipulation of matter at this level allows the creation of solutions with greater scientific, social and economic impact. For the purposes of this research, laboratory results will be shown using cellulosic nanomaterials for the adsorption of emerging antibiotic-type contaminants. Method: This research was carried out at laboratory level, where cellulose was modified by chemical methods to obtain nanocellulose by oxidation. A characterization of the material obtained by spectroscopy techniques was carried out, and the adsorption of emerging anti-biotic contaminants such as ciprofloxacin. Results: Cellulosic nanomaterials have the potential to be used in tertiary water treatment for the removal of emerging contaminants such as ciprofloxacin. The results show that the cellulosic nanomaterial adsorbs ciprofloxacin by 27 %. Conclusions: Nanocellulose membranes have potential for use in a water purification system; those made only with cellulose showed a lower percentage of contaminant adsorption than membranes with nanocellulose.