Dynamic Study of Multilayered Adsorption Column for Fluoride Removal Using Aspen Adsim

Abstract

Groundwater is the primary drinking water source for many rural communities in Pakistan. However, it often contains natural pollutants, such as fluoride, which can be toxic. The WHO sets the safe fluoride limit in water at 1-1.5 mg/L; levels above this can lead to health issues like fluorosis. Globally, approximately 200 million people are affected by fluorosis. In Pakistan, the Tharparker and Chachro regions have fluoride concentrations as high as 28.25 mg/L. Among various techniques developed for fluoride removal, adsorption is considered the most promising due to its cost-effectiveness and simplicity in design and operation. Although numerous adsorbents have been developed, commercialization is limited as most studies remain at the laboratory scale. This study used Aspen ADSIM, a process simulation and modeling tool, to develop and optimize single and multi-layered adsorption columns for fluoride removal from groundwater. Three adsorbents were tested: activated alumina, china clay, and zeolite. Parametric investigations, including inlet feed concentration and bed column height, were conducted through several simulations. Results indicate that these parameters significantly affect the adsorption column’s performance. The multi-layered adsorption column demonstrated excellent performance for large-scale applications and commercialization potential. Practical implementation requires further experimental and economic analysis.