Management of Hexavalent Chromium from Industrial Waste Using Low-cost Waste Biomass

Hexavalent chromium because of its unique properties finds large number of industrial applications. Consequently, these industries discharge large quantities of chromium containing effluents. Since chromium is a known mutagen and carcinogen, the prevalent pollution laws in most countries require its complete removal from waste streams before discharge. There are several methods employed for chromium removal. However, most of these methods are unsustainable in nature and economically unattractive. It is therefore necessary to look for a new practical, economic, efficient and sustainable alternative for the management of chromium bearing industrial effluents. Bio-management approaches are gaining immense creditability world across in the recent years. Chromium being non-renewable and finite natural resource, the argument is not limited only to their removal from the effluents, but also extends to finding an efficient and economical ways of recovery/recycling. The present study explores the possibility of using saw dust for the removal of hexavalent chromium from industrial waste.