Revolutionary Wood-Based Technology Purifies Wastewater from Dye Pollutants

Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology have developed a new biobased material, a form of powder based on cellulose nanocrystals to purify water from pollutants, including textile dyes. The cellulose powder filter absorbs the pollutants, and the sunlight entering the treatment system causes them to break down quickly and efficiently. Laboratory tests have shown that at least 80 percent of the dye pollutants are removed with the new method and material, and the researchers see good opportunities to further increase the degree of purification. The method will be tested in India, where textile industry wastewater is a widespread problem.