Amino-functionalized graphene oxide supported in charcoal from the gasification of furniture scraps: From one-pot synthesis to wastewater remediation

Abstract

Wood from furniture scraps were fed into a gasifier to produce clean energy, and its residual charcoal (FSC) was used as support for the development of an amino-functionalized multilayer graphene oxide (AmGO) composite. The AmGO supported on FSC (AmGO@FSC) and its pristine materials were characterized and then investigated as potential adsorbent of water pollutants. The supporting of AmGO on FSC consists in a two-way solution for environmental remediation, since a waste has been benefited to remove water pollutants. Moreover, supporting process eases the separation of the highly hydrophilic graphene oxide from the liquid medium, which is one of the main challenges in applying these nanomaterials. From equilibrium and kinetic studies, the maximum adsorption capacity at monolayer was 54.35 mg g−1, and equilibrium constant was 0.76 L mg−1, and Langmuir-Freundlich isotherm showed the best fit. Based on these studies, the predicted mechanisms of adsorption are governed by resistance to mass transfer in the bulk and liquid–solid film. Moreover, the molecules of Methylene Blue engaged the active sites of AmGO@FSC through π−π stacking and other weak interactions. Thermodynamic assays evidenced the spontaneity and the physical behavior of the adsorption, whilst the AmGO@FSC could be regenerated after six cycles. Finally, AmGO@FSC showed adsorptive capacity 2 times greater than its precursor material FSC. The great adsorptive capacity, high recoverability and easy separation bestow AmGO@FSC as one profitable adsorbent of textile dyes.