Novel Lignin-Based Magnetite Nanocomposites for Removal of Phosphate from Contaminated Waters

This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project will explore the synthesis and use of novel lignin-derived carbon-magnetite nanocomposites for removal of aqueous phosphate– a run off pollutant from agricultural farms that leads to eutrophication of lakes and other water reservoirs. The intellectual property related to nanocomposite synthesis (and associated applications) is exclusively licensed to Synanomet, LLC and relies on an extremely rapid, environmentally friendly, and economical viable method. In Phase I Synanomet, LLC will (a) synthesize and characterize the thermal, spectral and structural properties of the lignin-based carbon-magnetite nanocomposites (b) determine if the nanocomposites could lower a 1.0 mg/L phosphate concentration (in prepared stock solutions as well as samples from dairy waste runoffs) to below 0.1 mg/L (100 ppb) to be Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) compliant in several regions in the U.s. (c0 determine the conditions for regeneration of the s pent nanocomposites and (d) determine phosphate-removal efficiency of regenerated nanocomposites. This technology represents a novel way for the remediation and restoration of water resources that impact agricultural operations and serves to promote watershed restoration. The cost per cubic foot of nanocomposite media synthesized in this project is projected to be $142/ft3 as opposed to similar ion nano impregnated IX resin (Layne RT), which sells for $280/ft3 (minimum unit rate). Also, none of the commercially available iron oxide-based media currently being marketed by Severn Trent, Hydroglobe, Solmetex, and other are renewable resource-based. The carbon-magnetite nanocomposites are multi-functional with potential applications in battery anodes, magnetic toners, biogas purification as well as arsenic, selenium and fluoride removal.