Carbon nanotube–chitosan composite electrodes for electrochemical removal of Cu(II) ions

Carbon nanotube–chitosan (CNT–CS) composite electrodes are prepared by firstly reacting oxidized CNT with thionyl chloride and then covalently grafting CS onto the surface of CNT. The electrochemical removal of Cu2+ ions by CNT–CS composite electrodes is investigated. The results show that CNT–CS Exhibits 85% Cu2+ removal ratio, 25% higher than that of pristine CNT, due to its lower zeta potential, higher surface area, more hydrophilic surface and more binding sites.

► Carbon nanotube–chitosan electrode is used for Cu2+ electrochemical removal. ► Composite electrode has a higher surface area and more hydrophilic surface. ► Composite electrode Exhibits 85% Cu2+ removal ratio, 25% higher than that of CNT.