Novel Hybrid System for Dye Removal from Industrial Effluents

Researchers at Cyprus International University have developed a novel hybrid system integrating ultrasound and nanofiltration technologies for the removal of Remazol Brilliant Blue Reactive (RBBR) dye from aqueous solutions. This innovative approach addresses a critical challenge in environmental engineering by leveraging the complementary strengths of both technologies to enhance dye removal efficiency and minimize byproduct formation. The study demonstrates the potential of this hybrid system to become a robust and sustainable solution for advanced treatment of dye-contaminated wastewater, contributing to the development of cleaner industrial processes and improved water reuse practices.

Key Takeaways:

• The hybrid system combining ultrasound and nanofiltration technologies achieved over 99% dye rejection, significantly outperforming the standalone nanofiltration process in removing RBBR dye.
• The optimal pH for the hybrid system was found to be 3, which resulted in 79% reduction in absorbance and 58% total organic carbon (TOC) removal.
• The ultrasound treatment at 575 kHz resulted in partial oxidation of the dye, and nanofiltration consistently removed over 99% of the dye across all tested pH values, though a flux decline of 16% was observed at pH 3 due to fouling.
• The hybrid system eliminated flux decline at the optimal pH of 3, demonstrating its ability to maintain high dye removal efficiency while minimizing membrane fouling.
• Degradation by-products were confirmed via mass spectrometry and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, highlighting the complementary role of nanofiltration in removing potential intermediates.
• The study results demonstrate the potential of this hybrid system to contribute to the development of cleaner industrial processes and improved water reuse practices.

Statistics:

• 79% reduction in absorbance achieved through ultrasound treatment at 575 kHz and pH 3.
• 58% total organic carbon (TOC) removal achieved through hybrid system at pH 3.
• 99% dye rejection achieved by the hybrid system at optimal pH of 3.
• 16% flux decline observed in nanofiltration process at pH 3.
• 575 kHz ultrasound frequency used in the study.

Sources:

• NewsRx. Study Data from Cyprus International University Update Knowledge of Nanofiltration (Ultrasound-assisted Nanofiltration for Remazol Brilliant Blue Reactive Removal: Elucidating the Role of Ph In Efficacy and By-product Formation). Journal of Engineering. October 20, 2025; p 4207.
• Journal of Water Process Engineering. Ultrasound-assisted Nanofiltration for Remazol Brilliant Blue Reactive Removal: Elucidating the Role of Ph In Efficacy and By-product Formation. 2025; 78.