Optimization for zeolite regeneration and nitrogen removal performance of a hypochlorite-chloride regenerant

Simultaneous zeolites regeneration and nitrogen removal were investigated by using a mixed solution of NaClO and NaCl (NaClO-NaCl solution), and effects of the regenerant on ammonium removal performance and textural properties of zeolites were analyzed by long-term adsorption and regeneration operations. Mixed NaClO-NaCl solution removed more NH4+ exchanged on zeolites and converted more of them to nitrogen than using NaClO or NaCl solution alone. Response surface methodological analysis indicated that molar ratio of hypochlorite and nitrogen (ClO−/N), NaCl concentration and pH value all had significant effects on zeolites regeneration and NH4+ conversion to nitrogen, and the optimum condition was obtained at ClO−/N of 1.75, NaCl concentration of 20 g/L and pH of 10.0. Zeolites regenerated by mixed NaClO-NaCl solution showed higher ammonium adsorption rate and lower capacity than unused zeolites. Zeolites and the regeneration solution were both effective even after 20 cycles of use. Composition and morphological analysis revealed that the main mineral species and surface morphology of zeolites before and after NaClO-NaCl regeneration were unchanged. Textural analysis indicated that NaClO-NaCl regeneration leads to an increased surface area of zeolites, especially the microporosity. The results indicated that NaClO-NaCl regeneration is an attractive method to achieve sustainable removal of nitrogen from wastewater through zeolite. •NaClO-NaCl solution was effective for zeolite regeneration and nitrogen removal.•NaClO-NaCl regeneration condition was optimized by response surface method.•The regeneration improved NH4+ removal of zeolites by increasing microporosity.•The regeneration had insignificant effect on composition and morphology of zeolites.