Ultrafast and efficient removal of aqueous Cr(VI) using iron oxide nanoparticles supported on Bermuda grass-based activated carbon

In this study, iron oxide nanoparticles supported on Bermuda grass-based activated carbon (Fe3O4/AC) was prepared, characterized and utilized to remove aqueous Cr(VI). By examining the crystal structure of loaded nanoparticles, the iron oxide nanoparticles contained FeO, Fe-0 and Fe3O4. Among them, the Fe3O4 was proved to have the greatest influence on Cr(VI) removal. Kinetic and isotherm models revealed that the above-synthesized materials had ultrafast removal rate (3.08 mg/g/min) and excellent adsorption capacity (430.7 mg/g) for aqueous Cr(VI). Moreover, reusability of Fe3O4/AC was assessed and the results indicated that after third cycles, the absorbent maintained a 2.03-times higher adsorption capacity when using NaOH solution regeneration compared to HCl. A further increase of adsorption capacity was observed under ultraviolet conditions, which might be due to the oxidation of part Fe3O4 to cFe(2)O(3). The Cr(VI) removal mechanisms involved the reduction of Cr(VI) into Cr(III), electrostatic attraction, co-precipitation, ligand exchange and chelation. (C) 2021 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

In this study, iron oxide nanoparticles supported on Bermuda grass-based activated carbon (Fe3O4/AC) were prepared and utilized for efficient removal of aqueous Cr(VI), exhibiting excellent adsorption performance and reusability features.