A novel ultrasonication method in the preparation of zirconium impregnated cellulose for effective fluoride adsorption

• Novel Zr impregnated cellulose sorbent prepared using ultrasonication.
• Physico-chemical characterization of the adsorbent was studied in detail.
• The sorbent has an adsorption capacity of 4.95 mg g−1 for fluoride.
• Electrostatic interactions support the mechanism.

In the present work, we propose for the first time a novel ultrasound assisted methodology involving the impregnation of zirconium in a cellulose matrix. Fluoride from aqueous solution interacts with the cellulose hydroxyl groups and the cationic zirconium hydroxide. Ultrasonication ensures a green and quick alternative to the conventional time intensive method of preparation. The effectiveness of this process was confirmed by comprehensive characterization of zirconium impregnated cellulose (ZrIC) adsorbent using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry (EDX) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) studies. The study of various adsorption isotherm models, kinetics and thermodynamics of the interaction validated the method.