ADAMA SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY UNIVERSITY

COLLEGE OF APPLIED NATURAL SCIENCE

DEPARTMENT : INDUSTRIAL CHEMISTRY

TITLE PROPOSAL: Zeolite ceramic membrane for wastewater

treatment application
COURSE NAME: RESEARCH METHOD AND SCIENTIFIC WRITING
YEAR: THIRD YEAR SECOND SEMESTER
MEMBER NAME :
NAME ID NO
1.TOLERA TADESE………………..UGR/31317/15
2.YOBSAN TESHOME…………….UGR/31416/15
3.TESFAYE TERESA………………UGR/31290/15
4.SIRAK ZINABU…………………..UGR/31210/15
5.SELAM ESHETU…………………UGR/31210/15
6.SARA GETNAT…………………………………UGR/31196/15

Submitted to: Dr.Yilikal Dessie

Submission date:April 11,2025

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TABLE CONTENT

Content page

1. introduction ………………………………………………….1
1.1 background…………………………………………………..1
1.2 statement of the problem………………………………….....2
1.3 justfication…………………………………………………….2
1.4 Objectives of the study……………………………………….2
1.5 Hyphothesis ………………………………………………….2
2. Literature review……………………………………………..3
3. Materials and methods……………………………………….4
3.1 Description of the Study and Target Population…………...4
3.2 Research Design and Rationale ……………………………..4
3.3 Data Collection Methods……………………………………..4
3.4 Data Analysis Procedures…………………………………....5
4. Logistics………………………………………………...5
4.1 Time schedule/work plan/phases……………………………..5
4.2 personnel……………………………………………………….6
4.3 Facilities Laboratory………………………………………….6
4.4 Travel…………………………………………………………..6
5.References/ Bilbilography……………………………....7

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Abstract:
Zeolites are natural or synthetic microporous crystalline alumino silicates which have unique
ion exchange and sorption properties, and are widely used in a large number of water treatment
processes, such as water softening and purification from ammonia, heavy and radioactive metals.
In the same time, they have been extensively researched for variety of new applications, e.g. as
adsorbents for removal of organic substances, microorganisms and anions, for seawater
desalination membranes and fill materials for reactive permeable barriers.

The objective of this paper is to review the research concerning the application of zeolites in
water and wastewater treatment.

1.INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background
The increasing global population and industrialization have led to a significant rise in freshwater
consumption and wastewater generation. As freshwater resources become scarcer, the need for
effective treatment methods to purify water and manage wastewater is more critical than ever.
Zeolites, a class of crystalline alumino silicates have emerged as promising materials for water
treatment due to their unique properties, including high cation exchange capacity (CEC),
porosity, and selectivity for various contaminants. With approximately 40 naturally occurring
zeolite types and nearly 200 synthetic frameworks identified, zeolites have found diverse
applications across industries, particularly in water softening and purification from harmful
substances.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

Despite the extensive research and numerous applications of zeolites in waste water treatment
processes, there remains a lack of comprehensive understanding regarding the comparative
effectiveness of different types of zeolites. This gap in knowledge hinders the ability to select the
most appropriate zeolite materials for specific water treatment applications. Furthermore, while
zeolite ceramic membranes show promise for superior filtration capabilities, their operational
stability compared to conventional membranes requires further investigation.

1.3 Justification

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The exploration of zeolites in waste water treatment is justified by the pressing need for
sustainable solutions to address water scarcity and pollution. As traditional water treatment
methods face limitations, zeolites offer an innovative alternative that could enhance treatment
efficiency and reduce environmental impact. By synthesizing existing knowledge on zeolite
properties and applications, this study aims to provide valuable insights that can guide
researchers and practitioners in selecting the most effective materials for various water treatment
scenarios.

1.4 Objectives of the Study

a) To review and summarize the current state-of-the-art knowledge regarding the use of different
types of zeolites in waste water treatment processes.

b) To analyze and compare the key properties of natural, synthetic, and waste-derived zeolites
relevant to their application in water treatment.

c ) To evaluate the performance of zeolite ceramic membranes in comparison to conventional

membranes in terms of filtration capabilities and operational stability.

d )To provide practical recommendations for selecting appropriate zeolite materials based on
their properties and intended applications in waste water treatment.

1.5 Hypothesis
The hypothesis of this study is that zeolite ceramic membranes will demonstrate superior
filtration capabilities and greater operational stability compared to conventional membranes in
waste water treatment applications. Additionally, it is posited that specific types of zeolites will
exhibit enhanced effectiveness in removing particular contaminants from water, influenced by
their unique structural properties.

2.LITERATURE REVIEW
Zeolite ceramic membranes are gaining momentum as sustainable solutions for wastewater
treatment due to their molecular sieving ability, high chemical and thermal resistance, and
durability. They are particularly effective for separating heavy metals, organic pollutants, and
salts from industrial and municipal effluents.

Properties of Zeolite Ceramic Membranes

Zeolites are crystalline alumino silicates with uniform microporous structures. When integrated
into ceramic supports, they exhibit: Selective adsorption via ion exchange (Li et al., 2020).

Resistance to corrosion and high temperatures, suitable for harsh industrial conditions (Wang et
al., 2021).

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Structural stability under long-term use.

Source: Li, X. et al. (2020). Zeolite membranes for water purification: Mechanisms and
applications. Journal of Environmental Management, ScienceDirect

Synthesis Methods

Several synthesis methods affect membrane morphology and performance:

Hydrothermal synthesis: Zeolite crystals are grown under heat and pressure on ceramic supports.

Secondary growth method: A seeding layer is applied followed by crystal growth—enhances

uniformity.

Sol-gel technique: Used for precise pore control (Chen et al., 2020).

Source: Chen, H., et al. (2020). Development of highly selective zeolite membranes.
Membranes, MDPI. mdpi.com

Heavy Metal Removal

Zeolite membranes can remove Pb²⁺, Zn²⁺, and Cu²⁺ via ion exchange and adsorption.

Hua et al. (2019) demonstrated clinoptilolite’s effectiveness in treating electroplating

wastewater.

Source: Hua, M. et al. (2019). Heavy metal removal using natural and modified zeolites.
Chemosphere. Science Direct

Organic Pollutant Degradation

Zeolites combined with photocatalysts like TiO₂ degrade dyes and pharmaceuticals (Zhou et al.,
2020).

Source: Zhou, Y. et al. (2020). TiO₂-zeolite composites for advanced oxidation processes.
Catalysts. mdpi.com

Desalination and Ion Removal

Modified zeolite membranes are suitable for brackish and saline water treatment.

Source: Al-Absi, R.S. et al. (2021). Advances in ceramic membrane desalination technologies.
Desalination. Science Direct

Challenges and Limitations

Membrane fouling: Reduces permeate flux and operational life (Li et al., 2021)

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High synthesis cost: Expensive precursors and equipment limit scalability (Zhang et al., 2022).

Structural defects: Affect filtration efficiency due to inconsistent pore distribution.

Sources: Li, Y. et al. (2021). Fouling behavior of zeolite membranes. Water Research.

Zhang, L. et al. (2022). Cost and efficiency analysis of ceramic membranes. Environmental
Technology Reviews.

3. MATERIALS AND METHODS

3.1 Description of the Study and Target Population
The study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of zeolite ceramic membranes in treating
wastewater from industrial sources, specifically targeting facilities that discharge effluents
containing heavy metals, organic pollutants, and microbial contaminants. The target
population includes wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) that handle various types of
industrial wastewater, such as textile, chemical manufacturing, and food processing
industries. The selected sites will be representative of different wastewater characteristics,
allowing for a comprehensive assessment of the zeolite ceramic membrane's performance
across diverse conditions

3.2Research Design and Rationale

This research will employ a quasi-experimental design with a pilot study approach. The rationale
for this design is to facilitate real-world testing of zeolite ceramic membranes in an operational
setting while allowing for controlled comparisons against existing treatment methods.

Pilot Study: A pilot-scale setup will be established at selected WWTPs to implement zeolite
ceramic membranes in parallel with conventional treatment processes. This will enable direct
comparison of performance metrics such as contaminant removal efficiency, operational costs,
and membrane lifespan.

Control Group: Existing treatment methods at the WWTPs will serve as the control group,
allowing for comparative analysis of the new zeolite membrane technology against standard
practices.

3.3 Data Collection Methods

Data collection will involve both quantitative and qualitative methods:

Quantitative Data:

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 Water Quality Testing: Regular sampling of influent and effluent water will be conducted to
measure parameters such as: • Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) • Biological Oxygen Demand
(BOD) • Total Suspended Solids (TSS) • Heavy metals concentration (e.g., lead, cadmium) •
Pathogen counts (e.g., E. coli)

Membrane Performance Metrics: Data on flux rates, fouling rates, and cleaning frequency
will be collected to assess operational efficiency.

Qualitative Data:
Interviews and Surveys: Feedback from plant operators and maintenance personnel regarding
the ease of use, maintenance requirements, and overall satisfaction with the zeolite ceramic
membranes will be gathered.

Observational Notes: Field observations during the pilot study will be documented to capture
any challenges or unexpected outcomes during the implementation phase.

3.4 Data Analysis Procedures

Data analysis will involve several steps to ensure comprehensive evaluation:

Statistical Analysis: Quantitative data will be analyzed using statistical software (e.g., SPSS,
R) to perform: Descriptive statistics (mean, median, standard deviation) to summarize water
quality parameters.

Inferential statistics (t-tests or ANOVA) to compare the performance of zeolite ceramic

membranes against conventional methods.

Regression analysis to identify correlations between operational conditions and membrane

performance metrics.

Qualitative Analysis: Thematic analysis will be conducted on interview transcripts and

observational notes to identify common themes related to user experience, challenges faced, and
overall perceptions of the zeolite ceramic membranes. • Findings will be triangulated with
quantitative results to provide a holistic understanding of the technology's impact.

Performance Assessment: The overall effectiveness of the zeolite ceramic membranes will be
evaluated based on criteria such as contaminant removal efficiency, cost savings, and operational
feasibility compared to traditional methods.

4. LOGISTICS
4.1 Time schedule/work plan/phases
phase Activities duration

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1 Literature review,proposal 1 week
development
2 Procurement of materials and 1 week
equipment
3 Membrane fabrication and 2 weeks
sinteiring
4 Membrane characterizitation 1 week
5 Waste water sample 1 week
preparation
6 Filtration performance testing 2 week
7 Data analysis and 2week
interpretation
8 Reporting writing and 1 week
presentation
total 11 week

4.2 personnel
Role Responsibility
Principle investigator Project coordination ,supervision, and data
analysis
Laboratory technician Assisting in membrane fabrication and testing
Research assistant Data recording ,analysis ,and report writing
External consultant Expert input on membrane technology (if
needed)

4.3 Facilities Laboratory:

Equipped for ceramic processing, filtration testing, and wastewater analysis.
Equipment:
Muffle furnace (for sintering) Hydraulic press (for shaping membranes) Scanning Electron
Microscope (SEM) X-ray Diffraction (XRD) Spectrophotometer Porosimeter Water testing kits
(pH, TDS, COD, BOD meters) Supplies:

Raw materials:
Zeolite, kaolin, alumina

Chemicals:
NaOH, HCl, distilled water Safety gear: gloves, lab coats, goggles Filtration setup materials:
pumps, tubing, membrane holders
4.4 Travel
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Transportation:
Local transport to collect wastewater samples from treatment plants or industries. - Per Diem:
Daily allowance for research team during travel days (field visits, sample collection).

REFERENCES/ BIBILOGRAPHY
1. Li, K. (2007). Ceramic Membranes for Separation and Reaction. Wiley.
2. Van der Bruggen B. and Vandecasteele, C. (2003). Removal of pollutants from surface water
and groundwater by nanofiltration: Overview of possible applications in the drinking water
industry. Environmental Pollution.
3. Ahmad, A. L., & Ismail, S. (2005). Membrane technology for wastewater treatment.
Desalination. 4. International Zeolite Association, Index of Natural Zeolites Datasheets.
Available online at
http://www.iza-online.org/natural/index.htm (last accessed 2011).
5. International Zeolite Association, Database of Zeolite Structures. Available online at
http://www.iza-structure.org/databases (last accessed 2011).
6. Qiu, W.; Zheng, Y. Chem. Eng. J. 2009, 145, 483–488.
7. Kalló, D. Reviews in Miner. Geochem. 2001, 45, 519-5

8.Hua, M. et al. (2019). Heavy metal removal using natural and modified zeolites: A review.
Chemosphere. Link: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.chemosphere.2019.125020

9.Zhou, Y. et al. (2020). Photocatalytic degradation using TiO₂-zeolite composites. Catalysts

(MDPI). Link: https://www.mdpi.com/2073-4344/10/3/352