Optimized Preparation of Directional Modified Attapulgite and its Application to Adsorbance of Humic Acid in Polluted Raw Water Effluent

Natural attapulgite modified using acid activation, heat treatment, and organic modification was investigated as a humic acid adsorbent and an optimal modification method was confirmed. Results suggest that acid activation should be performed first and followed by organic modification. Optimum dosage of modified attapulgite was 0.7 g/L and the humic acid removal rate reached 97%. Optimum modification conditions were as follows: acid concentration at 3 mol/L, sodium chloride concentration at 0.5 mol/L, sodium treatment duration was 2 h, modifier amount was 3%, and microwave modification time was 9 min. Modified attapulgite prepared as such may be beneficial for water treatment processes.