ABSTRACT
This chapter provides extensive information on the removal techniques of dyes and heavy metals using biopolymers and biocomposites. Adsorption method was used for the removal of heavy metals in wastewater, in which activated carbons and biopolymers were used as common adsorbents. Biopolymers are polymers produced by living organisms, and they are polymeric biomolecules. Biocomposites are composite materials and a reinforcement of natural fibers. Heavy metals are transported by runoff water and contaminate water sources downstream from the industrial site. Different types of industrial wastewaters contain different types of heavy metals. Heavy metals from inorganic effluents have been removed using conventional treatment processes, including chemical precipitation, coagulation, complexation, activated carbon adsorption, ion exchange, solvent extraction, foam flotation, electro-deposition, cementation, membrane operations, and electro-remediation methods. Many investigators have tried various methods for the removal of heavy metals and textile dyes from industrial wastewater.
