Application of magnetic ion-imprinted polymer as a new environmentally-friendly nonocomposite for a selective adsorption of the trace level of Cu(II) from aqueous solution and different samples

Copper is a necessary elements and an important micronutrient for metabolism of many living organisms at low levels but it is toxic at high levels. The present study reports the preparation of a novel and selective magnetic ion-imprinted polymer (Fe3O4@SiO2@IIP) through the application of isatin (Isa) as a ligand and 4-vinilpyridine (4-VP) as a functional monomer for a selective and efficient extraction of Cu(II) ions from various samples. Further studied were the effect of several factors such as pH value, sorption and elution time, eluent type and concentration, sample volume, sorption capacity, and potentially interfering ions. Under the selected conditions, the limit of detection, preconcentration factor, and sorption capacity of this new polymer were 0.13 ng mL− 1, 200, and 83 mg g− 1, respectively. Ultimately, the feasibility of the Fe3O4@SiO2@IIP nanoparticles was evaluated via the extraction and determination of Cu(II) ions in different water samples, and agricultural products including (apple, kiwi, carrot, and tomato).