In this study, an
effective and environmentally friendly polyaminated
cross-linked chitosan (M-PACTS) flocculant was successfully synthesized
via circular focus single-mode microwave synthesizer irradiation.
Epichlorohydrin and tetraethylenepentamine were used as the cross-linking
agent and active cationic reagent, respectively. The same formation
was used to prepare cationic lightly cross-linked chitosan (C-PACTS)
via the conventional heating method. The flocculant was characterized
using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction analysis,
and scanning electron microscopy. The flocculation capability of C-PACTS
and M-PACTS was compared using laundry wastewater as a model pollutant.
The pH, PACTS dosage, temperature, stirring rate, stirring time, and
setting time were systematically investigated. The experimental results
showed that circular focus single-mode microwave synthesizer irradiation
was a more efficient method to modify chitosan. M-PACTS exhibited
a higher capacity for turbidity and chemical oxygen demand (COD
Cr
) removal. Under optimal conditions, the removal rate values
of M-PACTS were up to 96% (turbidity) and 78% (COD
Cr
).
The proposed PACTS is suitable for treatment of polluted wastewater
in an eco-friendly manner without causing secondary pollution.