All food waste-based membranes for Chromium(VI) removal

In this work, we demonstrate that eggshell membranes (ESM) can be successfully functionalized with extracts from orange peel or broccoli leaves and stems, in order to create a completely food waste-based adsorbing material, ideal for the removal of hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) from water. This approach represents a proof-of-concept example of simultaneous solution to a couple of major global challenges: assuring good quality water and recycling food waste. The working principle of the presented system is based on a synergistic interplay between the ESM functional groups (in particular, protonated amino and carboxylic acid groups) and the organic acids contained in vegetable extracts and it enables to obtain a device that works efficiently in real world conditions.