Synthesis, characterization of Ce3+ doped poly (para-phenylenediamine) composite for fluoride, arsenite and pathogens removal in aqueous solutions

This study presents the synthesis of cerium doped poly(-para-phenylenediamine) composite (Ce-pPD) using chemical co-oxidative polymerization and evaluates its potential towards F-, As3+, and pathogens removal from aqueous solution. The Scanning Electron Microscope, Fourier Transform Infra-red, X-ray Diffraction, Brunauer Emmett Teller, and CHNS/O organic elemental analyser were used to assess the characteristics of Ce-pPD. The batch adsorption method was used to assess the removal ability of Ce-pPD towards F- and As3+ from an aqueous solution. The antimicrobial potency of Ce-pPD was evaluated using the Agar diffusion method. The Ce-pPD has a strong affinity towards F- (95%) than As3+ (86%) with a maximum adsorption capacity of 13.29 and 2.11 mg/g respectively. The adsorption kinetics studies of F- and As3+ uptake were better described by pseudo-second-order suggesting that adsorption of these species occurred via chemisorption. The adsorption isotherm data were better described by the Freundlich adsorption isotherm model suggesting multiple layered adsorption occurred on a heterogeneous surface. The Ce-pPD composite portrayed high antimicrobial activity towards Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumonia, and Staphylococcus aureus showing a minimum zone of inhibition of 12, 11, and 9.3 mm. respectively. Thus, Ce-pPD has the potential to remove fluoride, arsenic, and pathogen from water.

Automated summary

This study presents the synthesis of cerium doped poly(-para-phenylenediamine) composite (Ce-pPD) and evaluates its potential towards the removal of fluoride, arsenic, and pathogens from aqueous solution. The results show that Ce-pPD has a strong affinity towards fluoride and a high adsorption capacity, and also exhibits antimicrobial activity against various pathogens.