Preparation and characterization of Fe3O4/graphene nanocomposite and investigation of its adsorption performance for aniline and p-chloroaniline

In the present study, Fe3O4/graphene nanocomposite was prepared by solvothermal method and characterized by transmission electron microscope, Fourier transform infrared spectrometer and vibration sample magnetometer. Effects of different factors, including initial solution pH, agitation time and adsorbate concentration, on adsorption capacity of Fe3O4/graphene nanocomposite for aniline and p-chloroaniline were investigated. Experimental results demonstrated aniline and p-chloroaniline could be effectively removed from aqueous solution by Fe3O4/graphene nanocomposite within 60 min without adjusting solution pH. The adsorption of aniline and p-chloroaniline onto Fe3O4/graphene nanocomposite obeyed pseudo-second-order kinetic model and Freundlich isotherm model. The saturation magnetization of the Fe3O4/graphene nanocomposite was about 120 emu g−1, which ensured the convenient magnetic separation after adsorption.

Graphical abstract.Download full-size imageHighlights► Fe3O4/graphene nanocomposite was prepared by solvothermal method and characterized. ► Aniline and p-chloroaniline can be efficiently removed without adjusting pH. ► The adsorption obeyed pseudo-second-order kinetic model. ► The adsorption showed agreement with Freundlich isotherm model. ► Fe3O4/graphene nanocomposite was a suitable adsorbent for anilines.