Efficient removal of Sr2+ and Cs+ from aqueous solutions using a sulfonic acid-functionalized Zr-based metal-organic framework

A stable and highly efficient adsorbent was successfully fabricated by the modification with UiO-66-NH2 with -SO3H functional groups using a facile and scalable tactic. The physical and chemical properties of UiO-66-NH-SO3H-3 were extensively characterized. The maximum removal capacities are 173.9 and 233.4 mg g(-1) for Sr2+ and Cs+ at 298 K, respectively. More importantly, UiO-66-NH-SO3H-3 can remove Sr2+ and Cs+ selectively even in the presence of different coexisting ions due to the -SO3H functional groups. Coordination with -SO3H functional groups is main adsorption mechanism while electrostatic interaction and ion exchange may be also involved in the adsorption process. [GRAPHICS] .

Automated summary

A stable and highly efficient adsorbent, UiO-66-NH-SO3H-3, was successfully fabricated using a facile and scalable tactic, showing significant removal capacities for Sr2+ and Cs+. Due to the -SO3H functional groups, this adsorbent can selectively remove Sr2+ and Cs+ even in the presence of different coexisting ions, suggesting potential applications in water treatment.