Abstract
Hydrogels are frequently utilized in industries such as healthcare and food due to their biodegradable nature and cost-effectiveness. Their high selectivity in liquid retention makes them ideal for applications in the removal and detection of heavy metals in liquids. In our study, we adapted hydrogel beads specifically for the detection of Ni(II) and Cr(VI) metals in industrial wastewater. Upon immersion in liquid, the hydrogels exhibit a color change within 2 minutes, reaching equilibrium at 10 minutes. The color change is observed as transparent to pink for nickel and transparent to magenta for chromium. The detection limits are 2.5 mg/mL for nickel and 1 mg/mL for chromium. These hydrogel beads can be used in wastewater without the need for pre-treatment or pH adjustment.
This study plays a crucial role in occupational health and safety, particularly in industrial wastewater management. The accumulation of toxic and carcinogenic heavy metals such as Ni(II) and Cr(VI) in workplaces and the surrounding environment poses serious health risks. Effective removal of these metals from water is critical for protecting water resources and reducing occupational health risks.
The use of hydrogel beads offers a rapid, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly solution for the detection of these metals. In industrial facilities, the immediate detection and removal of toxic substances to which workers may be exposed enhances occupational health and safety measures. Additionally, this technology aids industrial operations in meeting their environmental responsibilities, making it a valuable tool in the field of occupational health and safety.