Magnetic polymer nanocomposite for removal of divalent heavy metal ions from water

摘要

The magnetic polymer nanocomposite for removal of divalent heavy metal ions from water is magnetic nanocomposite having a core of magnetite (Fe₃O₄) in a shell of branched polyhydroxystyrene (BHPS), designated as Fe₃O₄@BHPS. The nanocomposite is synthesized by co-precipitation in alkali solution. Testing showed the nanocomposite reached 93% and 80% Pb(II) and Cd(II) adsorption, respectively, in 30 minutes, attaining equilibrium in 120 minutes. The maximum adsorption capacities of Pb(II) and Cd(II) at 298K were 186.2 and 125 mg/g, respectively. After adsorption, the nanocomposite with the heavy metal(s) adsorbed thereto was easily removed from aqueous solution by application of a magnetic field.