Removal of U(vi) from aqueous solutions by an effective bio-adsorbent from walnut shell and cellulose composite-stabilized iron sulfide nanoparticles

FeS nanoparticles were easily aggregated and oxidized in the natural environment. It was important to stabilize the iron sulfide nanoparticle composite with a stabilizer. Biochar could be used as an effective carrier to inhibit the agglomeration and oxidization of FeS nanoparticles. An efficient and novel bio-adsorbent (CFeS-WS) from walnut shell (WS) and cellulose composites-stabilized iron sulfide nanoparticle was synthesized by the modified method. The removal of U(vi) ions from an aqueous solution by CFeS-WS was carried out. The experimental results indicated that numerous functional groups were observed on the surface of CFeS-WS. In addition, the biochar was loaded successfully with cellulose and FeS nanoparticle composites. The cellulose and biochar effectively prevented the agglomeration of FeS nanoparticles. The adsorption process of U(vi) ions by CFeS-WS was more consistent with the pseudo second-order kinetic model and Langmuir isotherm model. The adsorption process of U(vi) ions was an endothermic and chemical reaction process. The proposed reaction mechanism of the U(vi) ion removal by CFeS-WS mainly consisted of the ion exchange reaction, reduction reaction, hydrogen bonding and functional group, and pore of the adsorbent filling. According to the results of the recycle experiment, it indicated that the chemical stability of CFeS-WS was good.

Automated summary

FeS nanoparticles are easily aggregated and oxidized in the natural environment. In this study, a novel bio-adsorbent (CFeS-WS) was synthesized by stabilizing the FeS nanoparticles with biochar from walnut shell and cellulose composites. The CFeS-WS showed good adsorption performance for U(vi) ions removal from aqueous solution.