Advancements in Dye Removal Techniques: From Conventional Methods to Nanotechnology

Abstract

Our planet possesses abundant water resources, yet not all of it is drinkable. The drinkable water we have is not used prudently. Various water treatment techniques are being utilized and researched for effective reuse of water and disposal of the solid waste obtained. Apart from major contaminants- pathogens, chemicals, sewage waste, plastics, and dyes, especially as waste from the textile industry, pose a threat to water bodies. The degradation of dyes is crucial for several reasons, primarily related to environmental and health concerns. Dyes, especially those used in the textile, food, and pharmaceutical industries, are major pollutants, contributing to water contamination and posing significant challenges for wastewater treatment because of their complex chemical structures and resistance to conventional treatment methods (Gao et al., 2018). Dyes in wastewater distort the color of water bodies, affecting aquatic life by disrupting photosynthesis and reducing the penetration of light. Synthetic dyes are resistant to biodegradation and lead to acute toxicity in aquatic ecosystems, causing eutrophication and depletion of oxygen levels (Gupta et al., 2015). One of the primary mechanisms by which dye pollution affects aquatic ecosystems is through bioaccumulation and biomagnification. Upon release into aquatic environments, these dyes are absorbed by various organisms, leading to their accumulation within the tissues of these organisms. As these organisms are consumed by predators, the concentration of toxic substances escalates along the food chain. This bioaccumulation may result in detrimental physiological and biochemical effects on aquatic organisms and terrestrial animals, including humans (Aliko et al., 2022).