Prussian Blue Coagulant for Low-Toxic Microplastic Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing microplastic coagulants, such as water-soluble Fe and Al-based coagulants, remain in water systems, causing environmental pollution and toxicity, and are inefficient in removing microplastics smaller than 20 μm, necessitating additional treatment processes.
Innovation Solution
A Prussian blue-based coagulant, which includes Prussian blue and its analogues, is used to coagulate microplastics under visible-light irradiation, leveraging intervalence charge transfer (IVCT) characteristics for effective coagulation, especially in neutral or alkaline water environments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If water-soluble Fe and Al-based coagulants are used to coagulate microplastics, then coagulation process can be implemented, but the coagulants remain in water causing environmental pollution and severe toxicity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the chemical composition parameter from traditional Fe/Al-based coagulants to Prussian blue-based coagulant, which fundamentally alters the toxicity profile while maintaining coagulation functionality. Prussian blue is environmentally benign and does not cause the severe toxicity associated with conventional coagulants.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a coagulant system where the active component (Prussian blue) can be easily removed after treatment, allowing for a single-use approach without long-term environmental persistence. The coagulant performs its function and then can be separated, avoiding cumulative toxicity issues.
2Productivity
If existing coagulants are used for microplastic removal, then some coagulation can be achieved, but coagulation efficiency is low and separate treatment process is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the coagulation function with the properties of Prussian blue that enable both effective microplastic aggregation and easy subsequent separation. The coagulant integrates multiple functions: microplastic binding, aggregate formation, and facilitation of separation through visible-light-responsive properties.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes visible-light-responsive properties of Prussian blue to dynamically control coagulation and separation processes. By changing the physical parameter of light exposure, the system can switch between coagulation mode and separation mode, eliminating the need for complex separate treatment processes.
3Productivity
If conventional coagulants are used for microplastic coagulation, then treatment can proceed, but pH adjustment is essential for coagulation efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The Prussian blue-based coagulant system is designed to function effectively across a broad pH range without requiring active pH adjustment. The coagulant essentially performs self-regulation, maintaining effectiveness under varying pH conditions that are commonly encountered in water treatment scenarios.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The Prussian blue-based coagulant achieves environmentally harmless microplastic coagulation with improved efficiency, removing microplastics up to 237.3 times more effectively than existing methods, with easy residue recovery and minimal toxicity.
Implementation Method 1
coagulating microplastics present in a water-system environment by using Prussian blue under visible-light irradiation
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a Prussian blue-based coagulant and a microplastic coagulation method using the same, which may effectively coagulate microplastics having a size of less than 20 μm or nanoplastics and implement an environmentally harmless coagulation process, and the Prussian blue-based coagulant according to the present disclosure refers to Prussian blue being used as a coagulant for microplastics present in a water-system environment.