Industrial Application of Nanoparticles in Water Treatment: A Feasibility Study for Small-Scale Industries in Nasarawa State, North Central Nigeria

Nanomaterial-based water treatment technologies offer enhanced contaminant removal efficiency compared to conventional approaches and are attracting growing attention as scalable solutions for small and medium industrial enterprises facing regulatory wastewater discharge compliance challenges in Nigeria. This study evaluates the feasibility of applying selected nanoparticle-based water treatment technologies at small-scale industrial enterprises in Nasarawa State, North Central Nigeria. A market survey identifies ten small industries generating wastewater with documented treatment deficiencies, including tanneries, food processing units, and battery workshops. Literature-based performance data for zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, and iron oxide nanoparticles in removing heavy metals, organic dyes, and microbial contaminants are compiled and analysed. Bench-scale photocatalytic and adsorptive treatment experiments are performed using wastewater samples collected from two participating industries to validate performance predictions under local water chemistry conditions. A techno-economic analysis assesses capital costs, operating costs, nanoparticle synthesis or procurement routes, and comparison with conventional treatment alternatives. Health and safety considerations for nanoparticle handling and disposal are reviewed against emerging regulatory guidance. Findings are synthesised into a professionally presented feasibility report with tiered implementation recommendations aligned with the financial capacity of small industrial operators in Nasarawa State. The study bridges the gap between laboratory nanotechnology research and practical industrial application in the North Central geopolitical zone. Keywords: nanoparticles, water treatment, Nasarawa State, photocatalysis, feasibility assessment