This research explores the possibility of alginate nanofiber technology for the remediation of water contaminated with toxic metals.We have generated electrospun nanofibers of the biopolymer alginate, a polysaccharide known for its ability to bind and sequester various metal ions in aqueous solution. Electrospinning is a process that uses a high-voltage electric field to transform an ionic polymer solution into micro- and nanoscale fibers (Figure 1). Electrospun fibers, made from both natural and synthetic polymers, have been investigated for applications ranging from pharmaceutical-laden bandages to biodegradable insect-resistant nets to cover crops.The alginate nanofibers were characterized using a variety of techniques, including spectroscopy and electron microscopy (Figure 2). After crosslinking the fibers to form insoluble fiberous membranes, the specimens were immersed in solutions containing various dissolved metals, including lead and mercury. Our studies of metal uptake indicate that significant reductions in dissolved metal ion concentrations are possible using alginate-based nanofiber technology.

Electrospun nanofiber membranes of crosslinked alginate for remediation of metal-contaminated water

248th National Meeting (2014)

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