LARHYSS JOURNAL 1112-3680 / 2521-9782
DEFLUORIDATION OF DRINKING WATER: STATE-OF-THE-ART TECHNIQUES AND FUTURE OUTLOOK
Abstract
Access to safe drinking water remains a global concern, particularly in regions affected by excessive fluoride concentrations. Various treatment methods, such as precipitation, adsorption, ion exchange, and membrane-based technologies, have been developed to mitigate fluoride contamination. Precipitation techniques convert soluble fluoride into insoluble compounds, while adsorption methods employ low-cost materials like activated alumina, bone char, and bio-adsorbents to capture fluoride ions. Ion exchange and membrane systems further enhance fluoride removal efficiency through selective ion substitution and physical separation, respectively. Despite their proven effectiveness in reducing fluoride to permissible limits and preventing dental and skeletal fluorosis, these technologies face notable challenges, including high operational costs, energy consumption, sludge generation, and limited applicability in rural or low-resource settings. Future research should focus on developing sustainable, energy-efficient, and low-cost treatment technologies using eco-friendly adsorbents, hybrid filtration systems, and nanomaterials to enhance efficiency while minimizing environmental impacts. Overall, ensuring long-term access to fluoride-free water demands an integrated approach combining technical innovation, economic feasibility, and environmental stewardship. Advancements in material science, automation, and circular economy strategies hold promise for overcoming current limitations and achieving sustainable water quality management in the future.
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