This work introduces a novel water purification method that integrates adsorption with thermolysis for regeneration of
the adsorbent. ZnCl₂-modified kaolinite was demonstrated to effectively adsorb methyl orange (MO) from contaminated
water with maximum removal under acidic conditions (pH < pHpzc). Thermolysis at 600 °C led to total decomposition
of MO, as supported by TGA and FT-IR, indicating the loss of MO-specific functional groups. Kaolinite was structurally
stable, allowing reuse for five cycles with stable removal efficiencies (82–85%). Kinetic studies revealed fast adsorption,
and thermolysis provided complete mineralization of MO. In contrast to traditional regeneration procedures, this method
maintains the efficiency of the adsorbent, rendering it a viable, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly solution
for water treatment at a large scale. The coupling of adsorption and thermolysis ensures the complete degradation
of pollutants while maintaining the reusability of the adsorbent, offering a green and new technology for wastewater
remediation and pollution elimination.

Title

Discover Applied Sciences

Publisher

Springer Nature

Publisher Country

Switzerland

Publication Type

Prtinted only

Volume

7

Year

2025

Pages

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