Abstract :
This study tests the stability of an organoclay complex (clay-BTMA0.5) and its adsorption capacity for a non-ionic organic chemical under various sodium chloride (NaCl) concentrations. Adsorption of benzyltrimethylammonium (BTMA) to montmorillonite and its desorption from the organoclay complex under various NaCl concentrations were measured. Results showed a decrease in the amount of BTMA adsorbed as the NaCl concentration increased from 0 to 100 g/l. Release of BTMA from the organoclay complex (clay-BTMA0.5) increased as NaCl concentration reached 100 g/l; however, desorption of BTMA was always less than 10% of the adsorbed amount. Solutions of BTMA increased the solubility of phenanthrene in water. Adsorption of phenanthrene by the clay-BTMA0.5 increased as NaCl concentration increased. Addition of NaCl to the system further increased the adsorbed amount of phenanthrene. These results indicate the stability of the organoclay complex (clay-BTMA0.5) under various NaCl concentrations and that its adsorption capacity towards phenanthrene was not significantly affected. Thus, the use of clay-BTMA0.5 may be useful in attenuating the concentration of organic pollutants as phenanthrene from distilled or saline water.
