Synthesis and characterization of ZrO2/CeO2 nanocomposites for efficient removal of Acid Green 1 dye from aqueous solution

ZrO2/CeO2 nanocomposites were prepared using the co-precipitation (ZCP11, ZCP12 and ZCP21 samples) and hybrid combustion-ultrasonication (ZC11, ZC12 and ZC21 samples) methods, following by the calcination. The characterization of the synthesized ZrO2/CeO2 nanocomposites was achieved by utilizing several analytical techniques such as High-resolution transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, Fourier transforms infrared spectra, BET method and Field emission scanning electron microscopy. The optimum conditions were evaluated from the batch method: pH = 3, 250 mg/L of AG1 dye, 0.05 g dose adsorbents, and equilibrium time (90-200 min according to the sample). The adsorption isotherm, kinetic and mechanism models analyzed using the extracted experimental data for the elimination of Acid Green 1 dye over ZCP11 and ZC11 samples. Besides, the thermodynamic factors were investigated at 293-303 K. The optimum conditions were employed for the fabricated ZrO2/CeO2 nanocomposite samples and the best adsorbent were reused for the elimination of AG1 dye.

Automated summary

ZrO2/CeO2 nanocomposites were prepared using different methods and characterized using various analytical techniques. The optimal conditions for dye removal were determined and the nanocomposites showed good performance in eliminating Acid Green 1 dye. Experimental data analysis revealed the suitability of the nanocomposites for adsorption isotherm, kinetics, and mechanism models for dye removal.