Dagestan scientists develop water purification technology
Scientists at Dagestan State University have developed glass beads coated with an ultra-thin antibacterial nanolayer designed to purify water
MOSCOW (MNTV) — Scientists at Dagestan State University have developed glass beads coated with an ultra-thin antibacterial nanolayer designed to purify water through photocatalytic reactions, researchers said.
The project, led by Abai Maksumova, a candidate of chemical sciences and head of the Dagestan branch of the Russian Chemical Society, uses atomic layer deposition to apply coatings just a few nanometers thick — thousands of times thinner than a human hair. The nanocoating is based on titanium oxide and vanadium.
Maksumova said the beads can be used in reusable drinking water and wastewater treatment systems. When exposed to light, the coating acts as a photocatalyst, triggering chemical reactions that destroy bacteria and other contaminants. “The filter material itself is not consumed and can be reused multiple times,” she said.
Researchers are also working to apply similar nanocoatings to ceramic and polymer membranes, as well as fabric- and paper-based air filters. The developments could benefit regions with limited access to safe drinking water.
Water contamination with heavy metals and arsenic is a major problem in Dagestan, particularly in mountainous areas. Separately, a student team from the university’s Faculty of Physics and Engineering has proposed a universal filter module based on magnetite nanoparticles to address the issue.
The developers said the magnetite particles, measuring 15 to 30 nanometers, provide a vastly increased surface area, significantly improving contact with water. A special attachment module has already been designed for installation on existing filters, making the technology suitable for large-scale production.
The glass bead innovation builds on earlier work by Maksumova’s research group, which previously developed antibacterial nanofilms that won recognition at the nationwide “University Science Relay 2025” competition. Those films are intended for use as protective coatings for jewelry and as barrier materials for bioimplants.
Maksumova said the materials were designed to function across a wide temperature range and remain stable in water and aggressive environments. Medical researchers have shown interest in the technology after animal studies indicated the nanocoatings were biocompatible, retained antibacterial properties and helped prevent post-surgical infections.
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