Synthesis of magnetically separable adsorbents through the incorporation of protected nickel nanoparticles in an activated carbon

We present a simple and versatile route to prepare magnetically separable porous carbons from commercial activated carbons. The magnetic properties of the composite are provided by nickel nanoparticles (around 8-15 nm), which are produced within the porous network by means of the thermal treatment at 600 degrees C of an activated carbon impregnated with a nickel salt and sucrose. This synthetic strategy allows the magnetic nanoparticles to be protected against acid attack. The magnetic composite thus obtained exhibits a large surface area and a high pore volume. An important advantage of this composite is that exhibits, at room temperature, low coercivity (similar to 0.1 kOe), allowing it to be easily manipulated by means of low external magnetic fields. (c) 2006 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.