Scientists at Petrozavodsk State University have developed a filtering material based on sphagnum mosses from the Arctic Zone of Russia, the Ministry of Education and Science reported. It is designed to purify contaminated natural environments from heavy metals, phenolic compounds, and petroleum products.
The patented method involves physicochemical modification of native plant raw materials, which significantly enhances their sorption properties. The material can be used for post-treatment of surface and industrial wastewater before discharge into water bodies. Researchers studied the quantitative patterns and molecular mechanisms of heavy metal adsorption and, based on this data, developed a model for obtaining sorbents with specified properties.
The scientists also proposed design and technological solutions for integrating filtering modules with new sorbents into existing and modernized treatment facilities. The use of renewable Arctic raw materials reduces dependence on imported sorption materials. The technology can be applied in eliminating man-made accidents and reducing anthropogenic load on natural ecosystems.