Iron Nanoparticle Filter for Remediation of Groundwater Contaminated by Geogenic Arsenic
Author(s): Juan Simon Torres Espada* and Ramiro Escalera
Abstract
Naturally occurring arsenic in geological formations is a major source of groundwater contamination worldwide, including Bolivia. Physical-chemical studies have identified high concentrations of arsenic in water from deep and shallow wells in various Bolivian regions. In the Lake Poopó basin, arsenic levels in shallow wells exceed Bolivian and WHO standards by up to 25 times. In Cochabamba, groundwater arsenic content reaches up to 113 μg-As/l. Chronic arsenic exposure poses health risks such as neurological, dermatological, and carcinogenic effects. To date, no measures have been taken to mitigate this issue, posing a serious threat to the health and livelihoods of the rural population. In this study, iron and iron oxide nanoparticles obtained from recycling were used to filter arsenic, successfully reducing concentrations below Bolivian drinking water standards.
