Hybrid nanocomposite for aquatic media remediation and respective production method

Abstract

The present invention relates to a polymeric hybrid nanocomposite composed of inorganic nanoparticles dispersed in an organic matrix, for remediation of aquatic media contaminated by anions, such as phosphates, nitrates, sulphates and polyphosphates. The nanocomposite is based on polypropylene grafted with maleic anhydride and aluminium isopropoxide and creates strong (covalent or ionic) chemical bonds between the organic and inorganic components, imparting high mechanical strength associated with indissolubility of the components in the body of water. The hybrid nanocomposite can be applied in situ, in which case the material is used to prepare a permeable reactive barrier to be introduced into the aquatic medium, and through which the water to be treated flows; or ex situ, in which case the water to be treated is pumped, is made to pass through a filter that contains the hybrid nanocomposite and is then returned to the aquatic medium. The hybrid nanocomposite can be moulded according to the type of use and application site. Several characterization techniques, such as spectroscopic methods and analysis of rheological properties, zero point charge and kinetics of phosphate ion removal, demonstrate that the product does not change the pH of or contaminates the aquatic medium.