Conversion of lignocellulosic waste into effective flocculants: synthesis, characterization, and performance

Abstract Development of cationic flocculants from lignocellulosic wastes not only eliminates the health and environmental concerns associated with use conventional chemicals, but also is way waste valorization. In present study, cellulose fibers extracted rice husk were cationized through an optimization method based on response surface methodology. The at optimal conditions had a zeta-potential 15.2 ± 1.0 mV, while highest potential was + 8.76 for samples developed before optimization. FTIR analysis proved presence corresponding functional groups. functionalized biodegradable absolutely positive charges broad pH range. employed as flocculant to remove turbidity synthetic wastewaters various pHs initial turbidities. showed excellent removals up 98.5% wastewater without need coagulants. contrast traditionally fibers, synthesized did affect effluent color during coagulation–flocculation. charge neutralization bridging adsorption governing mechanisms flocculation. procedure can be applied develop flocculation ability suitable operational characteristics.