Title: Water purification by functionalised self-assembled monolayers on silica particles

Authors: Peter J. Majewski, Chiu Ping Chan

Addresses: Ian Wark Research Institute, University of South Australia, Mawson Lakes Blvd., Mawson Lakes, SA 5095, Australia. ' Ian Wark Research Institute, University of South Australia, Mawson Lakes Blvd., Mawson Lakes, SA 5095, Australia

Abstract: This study focuses on a novel method to remove bio molecules and pathogens of different nature, such as proteins, viruses and oocysts, from water by silica particles coated with functionalised self-assembled monolayers. The results clearly show that organic species can efficiently be removed at pH ranges of drinking water by stirring the coated particles in the contaminated water for up to 60 min and finally filtering the powder. The removal is believed to be caused by electrostatic attraction and immobilisation of pathogens on the surface of the particles. At higher pH values above about 8, even chemisorption may occur.

Keywords: functionalised monolayers; self-assembled monolayers; silica particles; water treatment; pathogens; nanotechnology; Australia; water purification; biomolecules; drinking water; nanoparticles; organic pollutants; water pollution.

DOI: 10.1504/IJNT.2008.016919

International Journal of Nanotechnology, 2008 Vol.5 No.2/3, pp.291 - 298

Published online: 30 Jan 2008 *

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