Maleic Anhydride-β-Cyclodextrin Functionalized Magnetic Nanoparticles for the Removal of Uranium (VI) from Wastewater

New maleic anhydride-beta-cyclodextrin functionalized magnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs@MAH-beta-CD) were prepared through the simple chemical coprecipitation method. Macroscopic batch experiments were carried out to study its absorption behavior for uranium (VI) under different environmental conditions. Using the magnetic separation technique, it was possible to easily separate IONPs@MAH-beta-CD from uranium-containing wastewater. The equilibrium for uranium (VI) adsorption was reached for 180 min. The results showed that the kinetics and isotherm of the adsorption process were consistent with the pseudo-second-order kinetic model and Langmuir model, respectively, indicating that it was a chemisorption process. Compared with pure IONPs, the maximum adsorption quantity of maleic anhydride-beta-cyclodextrin-coated iron oxide nanoparticles for uranium (VI) was significantly improved, which could reach 163.93 mg g(-1). The recyclability of the IONPs@MAH-beta-CD was investigated, and FTIR and XPS characterization were used to explore the possible mechanism of U(VI) adsorption.

Automated summary

In this study, maleic anhydride-beta-cyclodextrin functionalized magnetic iron oxide nanoparticles were prepared and their adsorption behavior for uranium (VI) was investigated. The results showed that the maleic anhydride-beta-cyclodextrin-coated iron oxide nanoparticles had significantly improved adsorption capacity for uranium (VI) and can be easily separated by magnetic separation technique. The adsorption process followed pseudo-second-order kinetic model and Langmuir model, indicating a chemisorption process.