Preparation of a graphene-based magnetic nanocomposite for the removal of an organic dye from aqueous solution

A graphene-based magnetic nanocomposite was synthesized and used as an adsorbent for the removal of a dye from aqueous solutions. The morphology and inner structure of the magnetic adsorbent were characterized by both scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction. The adsorption characteristics of the graphene magnetic nanocomposite adsorbent were examined using an organic dye fuchsine as the adsorbate. The adsorption kinetics, adsorption capacity of the adsorbent, and the effect of the adsorbent dosage and solution pH on the removal efficiency of fuchsine were investigated. Freundlich model and Langmuir model were used to study the adsorption isotherms. The resultant kinetic data were well fitted by a pseudo second-order model. The graphene magnetic nanocomposite proved to be a highly efficient adsorbent and could be easily used for separation purposes. (C) 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.