Optimization of Zeolites (FAU, BEA, and MFI) for Pesticide Removal from Aquatic Environments

Abstract

Global changes in agriculture and the need for greater productivity have led to the widespread use of pesticides in forestry, the food industry, and veterinary medicine. Although they contribute to increasing yields, their uncontrolled application causes serious environmental and health consequences. Pesticides pollute soil, water, and air, enter the food chain, and can long-term affect human health. Through inhalation, ingestion, and skin contact, people are exposed to substances linked to immune disorders, allergies, and autoimmune diseases. The presence of pesticides in water resources has become a major environmental problem, which is why methods for their removal are crucial. Due to the diverse chemical structures of pesticides, there is no universal removal method, but specific approaches are being developed for different pollutants. Among the various techniques, adsorption stands out as the most widespread due to its simplicity and efficiency in the treatment of surface and wastewater. Zeolites are excellent adsorbents for ions and organic substances as porous materials with a large specific surface area, high adsorption capacity, and low price. Their adsorption properties depend on the chemical structure, the Si/Al ratio, the offline cation type, and active centers. Chemical treatments, such as acid-base treatment and impregnation with surfactants, allow adjusting the hydrophobic and hydrophilic properties of zeolites, thus optimizing their efficiency for removing various ions and organic compounds. Thanks to these modifications, zeolites can be adapted to specific purification needs, making them essential materials for environmental protection. Their adsorption properties depend on their chemical composition and can be improved by targeted modifications. Pesticides are extremely problematic pollutants due to their persistence and bioaccumulation. Studies show that only 0.3% of applied pesticides reach the target organisms, while 99.7% enter the environment. The European Union, through the Green Agenda, plans to reduce the use of chemical pesticides by 50% by 2030 and is working to expand organic agriculture to 25% of total agricultural land.