Preparation and characterization of nano-magnetic cellulose with fast kinetic properties towards the adsorption of some metal ions

Nano-magnetic cellulose hybrid was obtained from precipitation of cellulose in presence of Fe(II)/Fe(III) mixture. The hybrid material obtained was then functionalized with amino group through successive treatment by glycidylmethacrylate and tetraethylenepentamine. The functionalized hybrid cellulose was investigated by means of FT-IR, TGA, TEM, XRD and nitrogen adsorption surface area measurements. The prepared material showed adsorption capacity of 2, 1.5 and 1.2 mmol/g for Hg(II), Cu(II) and Ag(I), respectively. The adsorbent showed fast kinetics with exothermic nature for the adsorption of the three studied metal ions. The regeneration of the loaded adsorbent was carried out by acidified thiourea.

A sample of cellulose containing well dispersed nano-magnetite particles was prepared. The amino derivative of the sample was obtained and used for adsorption of mercury, copper and silver ions from their solutions.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights
► Nano-magnetic cellulose adsorbent was prepared and modified by amine active sites.
► The adsorbent showed good performance towards the uptake of mercury, copper and silver ions from their solutions.
► Fast kinetics was reported for the adsorption of the three metal ions by the adsorbent.
► Good performance was reported for the adsorbent in real matrix.