Development of an antimicrobial inorganic polymer based on fly ash and metakaolin incorporated by nano-TiO2 for reactive dye removal

Doaa A Ahmed; Morsy A El-Apasery; Shereen M Ragai

doi:10.1038/s41598-023-47032-9

Development of an antimicrobial inorganic polymer based on fly ash and metakaolin incorporated by nano-TiO₂ for reactive dye removal

Sci Rep. 2023 Nov 14;13(1):19889. doi: 10.1038/s41598-023-47032-9.

Authors

Doaa A Ahmed¹, Morsy A El-Apasery², Shereen M Ragai³

Affiliations

¹ Chemistry Department, Faculty of Women for Arts, Science and Education, Ain Shams University, Cairo, 11757, Egypt. doaaali@women.asu.edu.eg.
² Dyeing, Printing and Textile Auxiliaries Department, Textile Research and Technology Institute, National Research Centre, 33 El Buhouth St, Cairo, 12622, Egypt.
³ Chemistry Department, Faculty of Women for Arts, Science and Education, Ain Shams University, Cairo, 11757, Egypt.

Abstract

Advanced and eco-friendly construction materials are being developed to reduce pollution and improve wastewater treatment efficiency. One such material is a photocatalytic nanocomposite that uses industrial wastes and natural substances to eliminate pollution. A recent study explored using an inorganic polymer composite (FM) made from a mixture of 70% fly ash and 30% metakaolin, with sodium hydroxide and sodium silicate as an alkali activator. The study evaluated the mechanical and hydration characteristics of the FM composite after 28 days in 100% humidity at room temperature. The study also examined the effect of adding 2.5 wt.% of Nano-TiO₂ to FM composite and how it affects its properties. Results indicate that adding Nano-TiO₂ to FM composite enhances its mechanical, antibacterial, and photocatalytic capabilities. Specifically, FM-TiO₂ composite showed 90% removal of reactive blue 19 dye effluent in sunlight after 90 min, making it an excellent choice for sustainable wastewater treatment. This study presents a cost-effective, eco-friendly solution to wastewater treatment, with added antimicrobial properties from Nano-TiO₂.