Bentonite Functionalised with 2-(3-(2-aminoethylthio)propylthio)ethanamine (AEPE) for the Removal of Hg(II) from Wastewaters

Mercury is a natural occurring liquid heavy metal, which refers to high-density metallic elements such as cobalt, copper, iron etc. By the decomposition of minerals in rocks, in the ground and by water and wind erosion, mercury is released to the nature. Moreover, human activities have raised the natural concentrations decisively because of large application of mercury compounds in the industry, e.g. in the chlorine-alkali manufacturing industries for the production of chlorine and sodium hydroxide by means of mercury cathodes, the paint and battery manufacturing industries and oil refinery. As a result, mercury is found in an increasing amount in the sewage of these branches of industries. This can lead to severe environmental problems if mercury is introduced into natural water sources without proper treatment. ...