Investigation of thorium (IV) adsorptive behavior onto functionalized magnetite nanoparticles

The potential of magnetite nanoparticles functionalized with oleic acid (MNPOA) and bis(2,4,4-trimethylpentyl)dithiophosphinic acid (MNPDTPA) as efficient thorium adsorbents were evaluated. The experimental factors that control thorium adsorption capacity, e.g. pH, adsorption time, thorium initial concentration, and temperature were investigated. The adsorption data of both adsorbents fitted best to pseudo-first-order and Freundlich models. Maximum adsorption capacity at 25 degrees C was 370 and 454 mg g(-1) for MNPOA and MNPDTPA, respectively. Temperature dependency of thorium adsorption and thermodynamics parameters were investigated. The results declared the spontaneity, feasibility, and exothermic nature of the adsorption process demonstrating that MNPOA and MNPDTPA can be used as economic alternatives for the efficient thorium removal from aqueous solutions.

Automated summary

The study evaluated the potential of functionalized magnetite nanoparticles and dithiophosphinic acid as efficient thorium adsorbents, investigating factors that control thorium adsorption capacity and exploring the best-fit adsorption models. The results demonstrated the feasibility and efficiency of using these materials for thorium removal from aqueous solutions.