Arsenic Removal Technologies: A Critical Review

Arsenic (As) contamination in water sources is a significant global issue due to its detrimental health effects. Various As removal technologies have been developed to mitigate this problem and ensure safe drinking water for affected populations. This critical review provides an in-depth analysis of As removal technologies, evaluating their effectiveness, limitations, and potential environmental impacts. The review focuses on commonly used methods such as coagulation-filtration, oxidation, lime softening, and adsorption, ion exchange, and membrane processes, while also exploring emerging technologies. The study critically examines the advantages and disadvantages of each technology, considering factors such as efficiency, cost, operational complexity, waste generation, and system scalability. Furthermore, the environmental implications associated with treatment residuals and energy consumption are discussed. The review highlights the importance of selecting appropriate As removal technologies based on site-specific conditions and the need for long-term sustainability. It also emphasizes the need for ongoing research and development to improve existing technologies and explore innovative approaches to As removal. Overall, this critical review provides valuable insights into As removal technologies, facilitating informed decision-making for effective mitigation of As contamination in water sources.