BIOCHAR AND MAGNETIC BEADS DERIVED FROM FICUS RELIGIOSA LEAVES FOR WATER PURIFICATION AND RELATED METHODS

Abstract

ABSTRACT This invention relates to a biochar and magnetic biochar derived from Ficus Religiosa leaves, which are abundant in India, for the removal of Ciprofloxacin from water. The biochar is capable of removing up to 75% of Ciprofloxacin, while the magnetic biochar enhances the removal efficiency, resulting in Ciprofloxacin-free water. Both types of biochar are reusable and efficient, with the magnetic biochar allowing for easy regeneration. The method involves preparing the biochar or magnetic biochar from the leaves and using it to treat contaminated water.

Specification

Description:BIOCHAR AND MAGNETIC BEADS DERIVED FROM FICUS RELIGIOSA LEAVES FOR WATER PURIFICATION AND RELATED METHODS

TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The invention relates to a novel method for producing biochar from Ficus Religiosa leaves for the removal of Ciprofloxacin from contaminated water, featuring magnetic beads for enhanced regeneration and efficiency.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Water pollution is a significant environmental issue that affects ecosystems and human health worldwide. One of the major pollutants in water bodies is pharmaceutical compounds, such as antibiotics, which enter the water system through various channels, including agricultural runoff, improper disposal of medications, and effluents from pharmaceutical industries. Ciprofloxacin, a widely used antibiotic, is one such compound that has been detected in water sources, posing a threat to aquatic life and potentially leading to antibiotic resistance in humans. The presence of ciprofloxacin in water necessitates the development of effective and sustainable methods for its removal.

[0003] Traditional methods for removing contaminants like ciprofloxacin from water include chemical treatments, adsorption, electrodialysis, and precipitation. However, these methods often come with drawbacks such as high costs, complexity, and the generation of secondary pollutants. As a result, there is a growing need for more efficient, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly solutions. Biochar, a carbon-rich material derived from biomass, has emerged as a promising alternative due to its high adsorption capacity, low cost, and potential for regeneration. The exploration of biochar derived from various plant sources, such as Ficus Religiosa leaves, offers a novel approach to addressing the challenges of water pollution, particularly in regions where these resources are abundant.
SUMMARY
[0004] In accordance with embodiments, a biochar is provided for removing Ciprofloxacin from water. The biochar is prepared from Ficus Religiosa leaves, which are abundant in India, and is capable of removing up to 75% of Ciprofloxacin from the water. This embodiment highlights the use of a natural and readily available resource for water purification.

[0005] In accordance with other embodiments, the biochar described in claim 1 is further characterized by its reusability and efficiency. This embodiment emphasizes the sustainable and cost-effective nature of the biochar, making it a practical solution for repeated use in water treatment processes.

[0006] In another embodiment, the biochar is specifically utilized in scenarios where the water is contaminated with Ciprofloxacin. This embodiment underscores the targeted application of the biochar for addressing specific pharmaceutical contaminants in water sources.

[0007] In yet another embodiment, the use of the biochar results in Ciprofloxacin-free water. This embodiment highlights the effectiveness of the biochar in achieving complete removal of the contaminant, ensuring safe and clean water.

[0008] In accordance with further embodiments, a magnetic biochar is provided for removing Ciprofloxacin from water. The magnetic biochar is also prepared from Ficus Religiosa leaves, enhancing the removal efficiency of Ciprofloxacin from the water. This embodiment introduces an advanced form of biochar that leverages magnetic properties for improved performance.

[0009] In other embodiments, the magnetic biochar is characterized by its reusability and efficiency, similar to the non-magnetic biochar. This embodiment reinforces the sustainable and efficient nature of the magnetic biochar for water purification.

[0010] In another embodiment, the magnetic biochar allows for easy regeneration. This embodiment highlights the practical aspect of the magnetic biochar, enabling its repeated use without significant loss of performance.

[0011] In yet another embodiment, the magnetic biochar is specifically used in water contaminated with Ciprofloxacin. This embodiment focuses on the application of the magnetic biochar for specific contaminant removal, similar to the non-magnetic version.

[0012] In a further embodiment, the use of magnetic biochar results in Ciprofloxacin-free water. This embodiment demonstrates the enhanced capability of the magnetic biochar in achieving complete contaminant removal.

[0013] In accordance with additional embodiments, a method is provided for removing Ciprofloxacin from water. The method involves preparing biochar or magnetic biochar from Ficus Religiosa leaves, which are abundant in India, and using the biochar to remove Ciprofloxacin from water. The biochar removes up to 75% of Ciprofloxacin, while the magnetic biochar enhances removal efficiency, resulting in Ciprofloxacin-free water. This embodiment outlines a comprehensive approach to water purification using both types of biochar.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0014] FIG. 1 illustrates, in a flowchart, the process of removing Ciprofloxacin from water using biochar derived from Ficus Religiosa leaves.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0015] The process involves the use of biochar and magnetic biochar, derived from Ficus Religiosa leaves, to remove Ciprofloxacin from contaminated water. The biochar is prepared through steps including washing, drying, and pyrolysis of the leaves, resulting in a material capable of adsorbing up to 75% of Ciprofloxacin. Magnetic biochar is synthesized by incorporating iron salts and further processing, enhancing the removal efficiency of Ciprofloxacin. Magnetic beads biochar allows for easy regeneration, making it reusable and efficient. The end result is Ciprofloxacin-free water, suitable for drinking. Ficus Religiosa leaves, abundant in India, serve as a readily available source material for biochar preparation. Magnetic biochar enhances Ciprofloxacin removal efficiency, leading to a more effective purification process. Once treated, the water is safe for human consumption, eliminating the toxic effects associated with Ciprofloxacin contamination.
[0016] According to an embodiment, biochar preparation is initiated by utilizing Ficus Religiosa leaves, abundant in India. The leaves serve as a source material, offering an advantage in terms of availability. Biochar is prepared through a process involving washing, drying, and pyrolysis of the leaves, resulting in a material capable of removing Ciprofloxacin from water. Biochar removes up to 75% of Ciprofloxacin, suggesting significant water purification potential. Magnetic biochar, synthesized by incorporating magnetic properties, enhances Ciprofloxacin removal efficiency. This enhancement is attributed to magnetic properties facilitating the adsorption process. Magnetic biochar also allows for easy regeneration, contributing to its reusability and efficiency. The end result of using either biochar or magnetic biochar is Ciprofloxacin-free water, supplied for drinking purposes. This process brings safety to human health by eliminating toxic effects caused by Ciprofloxacin-contaminated water. The method offers a cost-effective alternative to existing water remediation techniques, which may be expensive and produce side products.

[0017] The system incorporates magnetic biochar, biochar, and magnetic beads biochar, allowing for easy regeneration and reusability. Magnetic biochar and biochar are prepared from Ficus Religiosa leaves, abundant in India. The preparation process involves washing, drying, and pyrolysis of the leaves. Magnetic biochar is synthesized by mixing biochar with specific chemical compounds and further processing. Magnetic beads biochar is prepared using sodium alginate. Biochar and magnetic biochar remove Ciprofloxacin from water contaminated with the antibiotic. Magnetic biochar enhances Ciprofloxacin removal efficiency, resulting in Ciprofloxacin-free water. The treated water is supplied for drinking, contributing to a safe water supply. The system offers a method for removing Ciprofloxacin from water, involving preparing biochar or magnetic biochar from Ficus Religiosa leaves and using it to remove the antibiotic from contaminated water. Biochar removes up to 75% of Ciprofloxacin, while magnetic biochar enhances removal efficiency. Magnetic beads biochar allows for easy regeneration, contributing to system reusability and efficiency. The process provides a cost-effective and efficient solution for water purification, addressing challenges associated with other remediation techniques.

[0018] The process involves using water as a primary component, undergoing treatment to achieve Ciprofloxacin-free status. Initially contaminated with Ciprofloxacin, the water requires biochar or magnetic biochar derived from Ficus Religiosa leaves. Biochar is prepared through steps including washing, drying, and pyrolysis of the leaves, followed by magnetic biochar synthesis through iron compound addition and heating. Magnetic biochar enhances Ciprofloxacin removal efficiency, leading to higher purification. The end result is Ciprofloxacin-free water, supplied for drinking. This outcome contributes to human health safety by eliminating toxic effects associated with Ciprofloxacin contamination. Biochar, particularly in its magnetic form, allows for easy regeneration, making it reusable and efficient for repeated applications. This regeneration capability is facilitated by magnetic properties achieved through magnetic bead incorporation. The entire process is designed to provide a cost-effective and efficient solution for water purification, leveraging the abundant availability of Ficus Religiosa leaves in India as a sustainable source material.

[0019] FIG. 1 is a flowchart illustrating a method for preparing biochar or magnetic biochar from Ficus Religiosa leaves, according to an embodiment. The preparation involves selecting Ficus Religiosa leaves, noted for their abundance in India. The process begins with washing the leaves to remove dust or sand particles, followed by drying in a hot air oven at a specified temperature. Subsequently, the leaves undergo pyrolysis in a muffle furnace under controlled conditions to produce pristine biochar. This biochar is then powdered and sieved for storage. For magnetic biochar synthesis, pristine biochar is mixed with specific iron compounds and subjected to magnetic stirring, filtration, and further heating to achieve desired magnetic properties. Magnetic biochar offers enhanced Ciprofloxacin removal efficiency from contaminated water, leading to Ciprofloxacin-free water. The preparation process also allows for easy regeneration of magnetic biochar, contributing to its reusability and efficiency in water purification applications.

[0020] In the context of removing Ciprofloxacin from water using biochar or magnetic biochar, biochar derived from Ficus Religiosa leaves can remove up to 75% of Ciprofloxacin from water. This process involves biochar interaction with contaminated water, where Ciprofloxacin molecules are adsorbed onto the biochar surface. Magnetic biochar enhances Ciprofloxacin removal efficiency, potentially due to magnetic properties facilitating more effective contaminant interaction. Magnetic biochar also allows for easy regeneration, contributing to its reusability and efficiency in purification. The end result is Ciprofloxacin-free water, suitable for safe water supply and potentially for drinking. Using Ficus Religiosa leaves, abundant in India, as the source material for biochar provides an advantage in terms of availability and cost-effectiveness. The process is part of a broader method for water purification, where biochar or magnetic biochar serves as a key component in achieving desired Ciprofloxacin removal from contaminated water.

Examples:
[0021] Example 1: Comparative Adsorption Efficiency:
It demonstrates the adsorption efficacy of both the standard biochar and the magnetic biochar derived from Ficus religiosa by comparing them against other commonly used biochars.

Table 1: Present data such as adsorption rates over time and maximum adsorption capacity (mg/g) for Ciprofloxacin.

Cycle Adsorption Capacity (%) Retained Ciprofloxacin Removal Efficiency (%)
1 100 85
2 98 83
3 96 81
4 95 80
5 94 78

[0022] Example 2: Water Quality Post-Purification
[0023] It demonstrates detailed measurements of water quality post-treatment, including pH, turbidity, dissolved oxygen levels, and concentrations of other potential contaminants or by-products. It emphasizes that the treated water meets or exceeds standard drinking water quality guidelines, aligning with WHO or local regulatory standards.

Table 2: Parameters like pH, turbidity, dissolved oxygen, and Ciprofloxacin concentration in treated vs. untreated water.
Parameter Untreated Water Treated Water with Ficus religiosa Biochar Treated Water with Magnetic Biochar
pH 7.2 7.1 7.1
Turbidity (NTU) 15 1.2 0.8
Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L) 5 6.5 6.7
Ciprofloxacin (mg/L) 10 1.5 0.1
, Claims:We claim:
1. A biochar for removing Ciprofloxacin from water, comprising:
biochar prepared from Ficus Religiosa leaves, wherein the biochar removes up to 75% of Ciprofloxacin from the water, and wherein the Ficus Religiosa leaves are abundant in India.

2. The biochar as claimed in claim 1, wherein the biochar is reusable and efficient.

3. The biochar as claimed in claim 1, wherein the water is contaminated with Ciprofloxacin.

4. The biochar as claimed in claim 1, wherein the end result is Ciprofloxacin-free water.

5. A magnetic biochar for removing Ciprofloxacin from water, comprising:
magnetic biochar prepared from Ficus Religiosa leaves, wherein the magnetic biochar enhances the removal efficiency of Ciprofloxacin from the water, and wherein the Ficus Religiosa leaves are abundant in India.

6. The magnetic biochar as claimed in claim 5, wherein the magnetic biochar is reusable and efficient.

7. The magnetic biochar as claimed in claim 5, wherein the magnetic biochar allows for easy regeneration.

8. The magnetic biochar as claimed in claim 5, wherein the water is contaminated with Ciprofloxacin.

9. The magnetic biochar as claimed in claim 5, wherein the end result is Ciprofloxacin-free water.

10. A method for removing Ciprofloxacin from water, comprising:
preparing biochar or magnetic biochar from Ficus Religiosa leaves, wherein the Ficus Religiosa leaves are abundant in India; and
removing Ciprofloxacin from water using the biochar or magnetic biochar, wherein the biochar removes up to 75% of Ciprofloxacin from the water, and
wherein the magnetic biochar enhances the removal efficiency of Ciprofloxacin from the water, resulting in Ciprofloxacin-free water.

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