Cobalt Ferrite Incorporated Ocimum sanctum Nanocomposite Matrix as an Interface for Adsorption of Organic Dyes: A Sustainable Alternative

The preparation of Cobalt ferrite-Ocimum sanctum nanocomposite, referred to as CoFe2O4/OS, has been reported along with its application for the treatment of water containing hazardous organic contaminants. A simple co-precipitation approach was applied for synthesis of magnetic nanocomposite, and a thorough analysis for its characterization was conducted using several spectroscopic and microscopic techniques. The characterization results showed that the magnetic nanocomposite exhibited substantial functional groups of Ocimum sanctum powder and magnetic ferrite part. The adsorption investigation of nanocomposite for removal of two cationic dyes was carried out with varying parameters, such as pH, contact time, temperature, concentration, and composite dosage. The sorption process was proved feasible and exothermic at the tested temperatures (303-323 K). The sorption data followed Freundlich and Temkin isotherms which recommended the physisorption progression. The kinetic study revealed a pseudo-second order rate of sorption process for both dye molecules. The facile preparation, economical cost, significant magnetic character, and high sorption capacity will surely construct the water treatment system more competent with the use of CoFe2O4/OS.

Automated summary

The preparation of a cobalt ferrite-ocimum sanctum nanocomposite and its application for water treatment were studied. A co-precipitation method was used to synthesize the magnetic nanocomposite, which was characterized using spectroscopic and microscopic techniques. The nanocomposite exhibited functional groups from ocimum sanctum powder and magnetic ferrite. The adsorption investigation of the nanocomposite showed that it was feasible and exothermic, and followed Freundlich and Temkin isotherms. The kinetic study revealed a pseudo-second order rate of sorption process. The CoFe2O4/OS nanocomposite has the advantages of easy preparation, low cost, magnetic properties and high sorption capacity.