Synthesis of nano zerovalent iron nanoparticles - Graphene composite for the treatment of lead contaminated water

A Nano zerovalent iron nanoparticles graphene composite (G-nZVI) was prepared via a sodium borohydride reduction of graphene oxide and iron chloride under an argon atmosphere. Powder X-ray diffraction patterns showed the formation of the magnetic graphene/nanoscale-zerovalent-iron (G-nZVI) composites and bare nanoscale-zerovalent-iron (nZVI) particles. TEM analysis shows the formation of similar to 10 nm particles. Adsorption experiments show a maximum Pb(II) adsorption capacity for the G-nZVI composite with 6 wt% graphene oxide loading. Additionally the effects of pH, temperature, contact time, ionic strength and initial metal ion concentration on Pb(II) ion removal were studied. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis after adsorption results confirmed the composite's ability to adsorb and immobilize lead more efficiently in its zerovalent and bivalent forms, as compared to bare iron nanoparticles. The adsorption of Pb(II) ions fit a pseudo-second-order kinetic model, and adsorption isotherms can be described using the Freundlich equations. G-nZVI shows great potential as an efficient adsorbent for lead immobilization from water, as it exhibits stability, reducing power, a large surface area, and magnetic separation. (C) 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.