Column with CNT/magnesium oxide composite for lead(II) removal from water

In this study, manganese dioxide-coated multiwall carbon nanotube (MnO2/CNT) nanocomposite has been successfully synthesized. The as-produced nanocomposite was characterized by different characteristic tools, such as X-ray diffraction, SEM, and FTIR. The MnO2/CNT nanocomposite was utilized as a fixed bed in a column system for removal of lead(II) from water. The experimental conditions were investigated and optimized. The pH range between 3 and 7 was studied; the optimum removal was found when the pH was equal to 6 and 7. The thickness of MnO2/CNT nanocomposite compact layer was also changed to find the optimum parameter for higher removal. It was observed that the slower the flow rates of the feed solution the higher the removal because of larger contact time.