Conducting polymers hydrogels with potential applications for removing heavy metals from water and soils

Abstract

Delivery systems are increasingly being explored in the literature. Such systems are based on controlling the release kinetics of a substance in a strategic way. Its functionality has been applied to both medical and environmental purposes. Overwhelmingly, the controlled release systems are comprised of polymeric networks. The of Electroactive Materials Laboratory at the Institute of Chemistry, University of São Paulo (USP) has been devoted to the synthesis and characterization of semi-interpenetrating networks of hydrogels and conducting polymers as potential materials for application in controlled drug delivery. These semi-interpenetrating networks are based on the electrochemical synthesis of conducting polymer of linear structure in a three-dimensional polymer network hydrogel. An important feature of this system is its operation as "artificial muscle" involving the application of an electric potential. In a recent synthesis has been shown that one can easily join the properties of conducting polymers and hydrogels in a single material. This became known as hydro-sponge and there were reports in the literature about its application in controlled release systems. One environmental problem that presents a potential risk to human health is contamination of water by heavy metals. Systems more efficient to remove these metals in water are necessary. A powerful complexing agent used to immobilize heavy metals is ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA). Taking into account all aspects mentioned above, the objective of this project is to elaborate a system On/Off of hidro-esponja/EDTA for controlled release and absorption of EDTA in waters contaminated with heavy metals. It is hoped that this system has high capability to be applied in the removal of heavy metals in surface waters and soils. (AU)