Characterization off wave absorbing material (Fe₃O₄, SiC, and activated carbon) to treat the contaminated soil using microwave heating and machine learning techniques

ABSTRACT

This study investigates the influence of wave-absorbing materials on the heating efficiency of microwave treatment in the remediation of contaminated soil, with a focus on the Tiruppur taluk region. The area was selected due to the significant contamination of soil and water bodies, particularly the Noyyal River, resulting from the direct discharge of dyeing waste. The materials tested include Fe₃O₄, SiC, and activated carbon, subjected to heating at temperatures of 100°C, 300°C, and 600°C. Microscopic analyses were conducted at a scale of 5 μm to observe any changes in morphology. The results demonstrate that although activated carbon exhibits greater thermal stability compared to Fe₃O₄, its wave-absorbing properties have a limited effect on the heating rate. SiC’s wave-absorbing capacity also does not significantly influence the heating rate. Notably, when subjected to continuous heating at 40°C, Fe₃O₄ begins to oxidize into Fe₂O₃, resulting in a 9% transformation. In addition, machine learning techniques were employed to enhance the analysis of soil properties and the efficiency of microwave heating. The findings suggest that while Fe₃O₄ and activated carbon are promising materials for microwave remediation, further research is needed to optimize their performance, particularly in the context of large-scale environmental applications.

Keywords:
Noyyal River; Contaminated Soil; Fe₃O₄; SiC; Activated Carbon