Bentonite-decorated calix [4] arene: A new, promising hybrid material for heavy-metal removal

摘要

There is global concern about the contamination of ground, river, and tap waters as well as soil contamination with heavy metal ions; these chemical species are known to not degrade and to cause severe health problems if ingested by humans and animals. Such environmental and health concerns necessitate the development of ultrasensitive sensors and high-capacity adsorbents. This study demonstrates for the first time the potential of organophilic bentonite combined with tetra(2-pyridylmethyl)amide calix (4) arene as a high-performance hybrid material for the removal of toxic heavy metals.