A simple and cost-effective synthesis route using itaconic acid to prepare a magnetic ion-imprinted polymer for preconcentration of Pb (II) from aqueous media

A new Pb (II) magnetic ion-imprinted polymer (Pb-MIIP) was successfully investigated for the selective extraction of Pb (II) from an aqueous solution. MIIP nanostructures were developed using itaconic acid-coated iron oxide nanoparticles (Fe3O4@ITA) as a novel magnetic core, ITA as a functional monomer and chelating agent, ethylene glycol dimethacrylate (EGDMA) as a cross-linker, and 2,2-azobisisobutyronitrile (AIBN) as an initiator. The triple application of ITA in the synthesis and reduction of the number of compounds in the preparation of the MIIP, in addition to being economical, reduces the possibility of side reactions. The synthesized products were followed and confirmed in each step by instrumental and microscopic methods. The limit of detection of the Pb (II)-MIIP method was 0.21 mu g L-1. Under the optimal conditions, the recovery (R%) was >90% with a relative standard deviation (RSD%) of <4.9%. The synthesized MIIP was reusable and successfully used to extract Pb (II) from tap water samples.

Automated summary

A new Pb (II) magnetic ion-imprinted polymer (Pb-MIIP) was developed for selective extraction of Pb (II) from water. The MIIP nanostructures were synthesized using iron oxide nanoparticles coated with itaconic acid as a magnetic core, with additional components including a functional monomer, a cross-linker, and an initiator. The synthesis process was confirmed through instrumental and microscopic methods. The Pb (II)-MIIP method exhibited a detection limit of 0.21 μg/L, high recovery (>90%), and low relative standard deviation (<4.9%). The synthesized MIIP showed reusability and successful application in extracting Pb (II) from tap water samples.