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Abstract:
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The most common and conventional method for removing turbidity from
water is by coagulating with alum or iron salts, and settling the precipitate in
suitably designed clarifiers followed by filtration. But the sludge produced is
bulky, difficult to dewater and accumulates in the dumping grounds causing
environmental problems. Synthetic polymers such as polyacrylamide and
polyethyleneoxide have been investigated for their ability to remove turbidity.
They overcome many of the disadvantages of conventional methods, but are
cost—effective only when rapid flocculation and reduction in sludge volume are
demanded. Considering the aforementioned situation, it was felt that more easily
available and eco-friendly materials must be developed for removing turbidity
from water. The results of our studies in this direction are presented in this
thesis. The thesis comprises of nine chapters, with a common bibliography at
the end. Chapter 1 gives an introduction to the nature of turbidity and colour
usually present in water. Chapter 2 discusses the nature and availability of the
principal material used in these studies, namely chitosan. Chapters 3 to 8, which
deal with the actual experimental work, are further subdivided into (a)
introduction, (b) materials and methods, (c) results and discussion and (d)
conclusions. Chapter 9 summarises the entire work so as to put the results and
conclusions into proper perspective. |