How are heavy metals, e.g - Leaving Cert Chemistry - Question 1 - 2004

Heavy metals can be effectively removed from industrial waste through a method called precipitation, which is also referred to as tertiary treatment. This process involves adding certain chemicals to the wastewater that react with the dissolved heavy metals, causing them to form solid particles. These solid particles can then be separated from the water, typically through sedimentation or filtration.

In addition, coagulation is often used, where coagulants are added to aggregate the fine particles of heavy metals into larger clusters, making them easier to remove from the wastewater system.

It's important to select suitable precipitating agents based on the specific types of heavy metals present in the waste, ensuring maximum efficiency in the removal process.