Adsorptive Removal of Copper Ions from Aqueous Solution Using Cross-linked Magnetic Chitosan Beads

The performance of cross-linked magnetic chitosan, coated with magnetic fluids and cross-linked with epichlorohydrin, was investigated for the adsorption of copper (II) from aqueous solutions. Infrared spectra of chitosan before and after modification showed that the coating and cross-linking are effective. Experiments were performed at different pH of solution and contact time, and appropriate conditions for the adsorption of Cu(II) were determined. Experimental equilibrium data were correlated with Langmuir and Freundlich isotherms for determination of the adsorption potential. The results showed that the Langmuir isotherm was better compared with the Freundlich isotherm, and the uptake of Cu(II) was 78.13 mg·g−1. The kinetics of adsorption corresponded with the first-order Langergren rate equation, and Langergren rate constants were determined.