KINETICS AND ADSORPTION ISOTHERMS OF NO₃ THROUGH LAYERED DOUBLE HYDROXIDES (LDHS)

This study addresses the use of layered double hydroxides (LDHs), a class of anionic clays, for the adsorption of nitrates in contaminated waters as an alternative for pollutant removal and water quality improvement. Nitrates, when found in high concentrations in water, can cause serious environmental and health issues, such as eutrophication and infectious diseases. Nitrate adsorption by LDHs is effective due to their high ion exchange capacity and large surface area, facilitating anion removal through ion exchange and adsorption processes. The study used the coprecipitation method to synthesize the clays, which were then subjected to adsorption tests and X-ray diffraction analysis. The results showed that nitrate adsorption is a dynamic process influenced by factors such as temperature, agitation, and time. The analysis of the adsorption isotherms followed the Langmuir and Freundlich models, with the Freundlich model being the most suitable for describing the adsorption process. The effectiveness of the process was confirmed by experimental data, highlighting the good performance of LDHs in removing nitrates at low cost. The study concludes that the use of LDHs in filtration systems represents an effective and sustainable alternative for improving water quality, ensuring environmental safety and public health.