Development and characterization of modified bentonites

This book discusses the use of modified bentonite-based adsorbent materials for the treatment of water contaminated with phenolic organic compounds. Three types of modification are explored: acid activation by H3PO4 functionalization by chitosan and surfactant intercalation (CTAB). The resulting materials are characterized using a variety of techniques (XRD FTIR SEM-EDX TGA-DTA) to analyze structural and morphological changes. Adsorption is studied as a function of several parameters (pH time temperature concentration) and results are interpreted according to kinetic isothermal and thermodynamic models. Experimental data show a marked improvement in adsorption capacity after modification. Regeneration tests confirm the stability and reusability of the materials. This work opens up prospects for the use of these materials in sustainable water treatment applications.