Research Projects of Md. Nazrul Islam

Associate Professor, Department of Geological Sciences, Jahangirnagar University

Dr. Md. Nazrul Islam is a dedicated researcher in the field of environmental and geological sciences, focusing on innovative solutions to address water pollution, industrial waste management, and environmental sustainability in Bangladesh. His research projects leverage advanced techniques such as electrocoagulation and geochemical analysis to tackle pressing environmental challenges, particularly in the context of industrial effluents and river system contamination. Below is a detailed overview of his key research projects, showcasing his contributions to sustainable environmental management and geo-engineering.

1. Lead Removal from Battery Effluent Using Electrocoagulation (2015)

Description: This project explored the application of electrocoagulation (EC) technology to remove lead, a highly toxic heavy metal, from effluents produced by the battery industry. By employing EC, the research aimed to develop a cost-effective and efficient method to treat industrial wastewater, reducing environmental and public health risks associated with lead contamination. The study involved laboratory-scale experiments to optimize EC parameters and assess lead removal efficiency.
Publication: Rahman, S.H., Islam, M.N., et al., Journal of Bangladesh Academy of Sciences, Vol. 39, No. 2, pp. 125-134, 2015.
Impact: The findings demonstrated significant lead removal rates, offering a scalable solution for industries to mitigate water pollution. This work contributes to safer wastewater disposal practices and supports regulatory compliance in Bangladesh’s industrial sector.
Collaborators: Syed Hafizur Rahman, et al.
Keywords: Electrocoagulation, Lead Removal, Battery Effluent, Water Pollution.

2. Reuse Feasibility of Electrocoagulated Metal Hydroxide Sludge (EMHS) from Textile Industry (2013)

Description: This research investigated the potential of reusing electrocoagulated metal hydroxide sludge (EMHS) generated from textile industry wastewater as a raw material for manufacturing building blocks. The project focused on transforming an industrial byproduct into a valuable resource, aligning with circular economy principles. Experimental analyses assessed the mechanical and chemical properties of EMHS-based building materials to ensure their suitability for construction applications.
Publication: Adyel, T.M., Islam, M.N., et al., Journal of Waste Management, Article ID 686981, 2013.
Impact: The study provided a sustainable approach to waste management by converting textile industry sludge into eco-friendly building materials, reducing landfill dependency and environmental pollution. This project has implications for sustainable urban development in Bangladesh.
Collaborators: Tanvir Manzur Adyel, et al.
Keywords: Electrocoagulation, Textile Industry, Waste Reuse, Sustainable Construction.

3. Analysis of Heavy Metal Content in Electrocoagulated Metal Hydroxide Sludge (2012)

Description: This project analyzed the heavy metal content in electrocoagulated metal hydroxide sludge (EMHS) from textile industry wastewater using Energy Dispersive X-Ray Fluorescence (EDXRF) spectroscopy. The research aimed to quantify the presence of toxic metals such as chromium, lead, and cadmium, which pose significant environmental risks if improperly disposed of. The findings provided insights into the effectiveness of electrocoagulation in capturing heavy metals from industrial effluents.
Publication: Adyel, T.M., Islam, M.N., et al., Metals, Vol. 2, pp. 478-487, 2012.
Impact: The results enhanced the understanding of heavy metal distribution in industrial sludge, supporting improved waste treatment strategies and environmental monitoring protocols in Bangladesh’s textile sector.
Collaborators: Tanvir Manzur Adyel, et al.
Keywords: Heavy Metals, Electrocoagulation, EDXRF, Textile Industry, Environmental Pollution.

4. Geo-engineering Potential of EMHS for Building Materials (2012)

Description: This project evaluated the geo-engineering potential of electrocoagulated metal hydroxide sludge (EMHS) as a sustainable building material. By conducting geotechnical and chemical tests, the study assessed the feasibility of using EMHS in construction, focusing on its strength, durability, and environmental safety. The research aimed to provide an innovative solution for managing industrial waste while addressing the growing demand for affordable construction materials.
Publication: Adyel, T.M., Islam, M.N., et al., ICETCESD 2012, pp. 473-482, 2012.
Impact: The project demonstrated that EMHS could be a viable alternative to traditional construction materials, promoting sustainable engineering practices and reducing the environmental footprint of the textile industry.
Collaborators: Tanvir Manzur Adyel, et al.
Keywords: Geo-engineering, Electrocoagulation, Sustainable Materials, Waste Management.

5. Electrocoagulation for Reduction of Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) in Surface Water (2012)

Description: This research focused on using electrocoagulation to reduce Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) in polluted surface water, a key indicator of water quality. The project involved experimental studies to optimize EC conditions for removing organic pollutants, aiming to improve the quality of surface water bodies in Bangladesh. The work addressed the challenges of water pollution caused by industrial and urban runoff.
Publication: Rahman, S.H., Islam, M.N., et al., Bangladesh Journal of Scientific and Industrial Research, Vol. 47(1), pp. 77-82, 2012.
Impact: The study offered a practical and cost-effective method for water treatment, contributing to the restoration of polluted rivers and lakes, and supporting ecosystem health and public water safety.
Collaborators: Syed Hafizur Rahman, et al.
Keywords: Electrocoagulation, COD Reduction, Surface Water, Water Treatment.

6. Seasonal Variations of Arsenic in the Ganges and Brahmaputra Rivers (2012)

Description: This project examined the seasonal fluctuations of arsenic concentrations in the Ganges and Brahmaputra Rivers, two major river systems in Bangladesh. Using geochemical analysis, the study investigated the sources, transport, and seasonal patterns of arsenic contamination, which poses significant risks to public health and agriculture. The research provided critical data for water resource management and policy development.
Publication: Islam, S.M.N., Islam, M.N., et al., Journal of Scientific Research, Vol. 4(1), pp. 65-75, 2012.
Impact: The findings highlighted the temporal dynamics of arsenic pollution, informing strategies for water quality monitoring and mitigation in Bangladesh’s river systems, particularly for communities reliant on these water sources.
Collaborators: S.M. Nazrul Islam, et al.
Keywords: Arsenic Contamination, Ganges River, Brahmaputra River, Geochemical Analysis.