Microwave assisted solvent free green preparation and physicochemical characterization of surfactant-anchored cellulose and its relevance toward the effective adsorption of chromium

The molecular interaction between tetrabutylammonium iodide (TBAI) and cellulose and its potential application for the adsorption of chromium is discussed in this paper. The biosorbent was prepared under solvent free conditions using microwave irradiation. A subtle balance between electrostatic and the hydrophobic effects governs the interaction of biopolymer with the surfactant. The interaction between the biosorbent and chromium was comprehensively studied using spectroscopic, thermal and surface analysis techniques. The various analytical parameters that influence the adsorption were optimized, and the maximum adsorption capacity of Cr(VI) obtained from the Langmuir isotherm model was found to be 16.67 mg g−1. The sorption thermodynamics indicated the spontaneity and exothermic nature of adsorption. The biosorbent could be effectively regenerated using NaOH, which imparts greener aspect to the overall process.

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► The molecular interaction between cellulose, surfactant and Cr+6 is discussed.
► Microwave irradiation under solvent free conditions is used for the synthesis.
► The sorbent offers an adsorption capacity of 16.67 mg g−1.
► Mechanism involves balanced electrostatic force and H-bonding.
► Regeneration of the sorbent is done using NaOH effectively.