Sustainable Removal and Reuse of Disperse Dyes from Wastewater Using Laponite® Nanoclay: A Circular Approach for Polyester Dyeing

This study investigates the removal of disperse dyes from textile wastewater using Laponite® nanoclay as a sustainable carrier, offering a dual environmental benefit: wastewater remediation and resource recovery. A hybrid dye-nanoclay material was developed and evaluated for its capacity to adsorb disperse dyes from aqueous solutions, with particular focus on optimizing removal efficiency and characterizing the adsorbent material. Beyond pollutant removal, the recovered hybrid was repurposed for direct application in polyester (PES) dyeing processes, providing an innovative circular approach within the textile industry. The dye-loaded Laponite® exhibited good affinity for polyester fibers, supporting its reuse potential and reducing the need for conventional, more polluting dyeing auxiliaries. This work highlights the feasibility of combining nanotechnology with sustainable wastewater management and resource reutilization strategies. The proposed method offers a cost-effective and environmentally sound alternative to current practices, contributing to reduced dye pollution and enhanced circularity in industrial dyeing operations.