Aproveitamento de rejeito de mineração de pedras ametistas como adsorvente para a desfuoretação da água

Abstract

Fluoride contamination in drinking water sources represents a significant public health issue, especially in rural regions where fluoride levels sometimes exceed the limits recommended by the World Health Organization. In this context, the search for efficient and economically viable methods for fluoride removal from water is of great importance. A promising approach involves the use of amethyst mining waste as an adsorbent material. This waste, abundant in southern Brazil, possesses physical and chemical properties that make it suitable for the adsorption of fluoride ions. This study investigates the adsorptive capacity of amethyst waste, analyzing its efficiency under different operational conditions. The characterization of the waste includes specific surface area and sample porosity, which are crucial factors for understanding the adsorption mechanism. Laboratory experiments are conducted to optimize parameters such as contact time and initial fluoride concentration, aiming to maximize removal efficiency. Additionally, the research compares the performance of amethyst waste with Permutit T, which has shown reasonable efficiency in fluoride ion removal, to describe adsorption data. The regeneration and reuse of the waste after adsorption are also analyzed to determine the feasibility of its practical application. Preliminary results indicate that amethyst waste has significant potential as an adsorbent for fluoride removal, offering a sustainable and economical solution for water treatment. The implementation of this technology could provide environmental and social benefits, as well as add value to mining waste.