“This technique makes use of multiple analytical tools such as spectroscopy and chromatography. The method is robust, validated and tested for its reproducibility,” says Nimkar.
The screening system is also said to be cost effective at just US$100 per chemical.
“I feel this is a mystery solved,” he noted, “there were so many unexplained analytes detected in waste water analyses and all these years I thought they were the breakdown products from dyes and finishing chemicals in the ETP (Effluent Treatment Plant). While this may be partly true, many of these impurities are from commodity chemicals.”
As for a solution, it maybe not be too difficult in that the textile industry will need to shift to the use of higher-grade, even virgin-grade commodity chemicals instead of using recycled by-products. The industry will of course have to study the costs and how this will impact the price of the final product.
Despite the immediate concerns, Nimkar believes, “This will be a very positive development for the industry as it will take them several steps ahead in their goal to achieve zero discharge of hazardous chemicals,” he concluded.
We’ll have more news and reaction on this story as it develops further.
