An Omani researcher from Sohar University has developed a sustainable method to combat industrial water pollution by transforming date palm waste into a powerful water treatment agent. The award-winning research presents a locally sourced, cost-effective solution for a persistent environmental challenge in the region.
Quick Facts
- Uses date palm biomass and iron oxide.
- Removes 80.3% of phenol from wastewater.
- Won Oman’s National Research Award.
From Agri-Waste to Water Treatment
The research, led by lecturer Abrar Said Al Ajmi, targets phenol—a hazardous chemical prevalent in wastewater from sectors like petrochemicals and pharmaceuticals. The innovative approach involves creating a nanocomposite from date palm biomass (Phoenix dactylifera) combined with iron oxide.
This process effectively converts a widely available agricultural by-product in Oman into a high-value material designed to adsorb pollutants, showcasing a practical application of circular economy principles. The project was conducted in collaboration with Subrajit Bosu and Prof Rajamohan Natarajan from Sohar University.
Putting the Nanocomposite to the Test
In controlled studies, the nanocomposite demonstrated significant potential as a practical solution for industrial use. The research team examined its performance under various environmental conditions, including temperature, acidity, and pollutant concentration.
Under optimal conditions of 30°C and a pH level of 7.8, the material achieved a phenol removal efficiency of 80.3%. Further analysis confirmed the process is stable and the material is reusable, pointing to its viability as a cost-effective and sustainable option for long-term environmental management.
A Circular Solution for Industry
Following the successful findings, published in the international journal Environmental Research, Al Ajmi recommends integrating the nanocomposite into existing industrial wastewater treatment systems. She also called for pilot-scale projects to assess its commercial potential.
For her work, Al Ajmi won the National Research Award in the Environmental and Biological Resources field under the Young Researcher category. “The award is a proud recognition of my work as a young Omani engineering researcher in environmental pollution control,” she stated. “It highlights the importance of research that supports national sustainability goals.”
About Sohar University
Sohar University is the first private university in the Sultanate of Oman, established in 2001. The university offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across multiple faculties and is focused on delivering quality education and research that contributes to the social and economic development of the country.
Source: Zawya
