Abstract
Energy efficient, low-cost, user-friendly, and green methods for the removal of toxic phenolic compounds from aqueous solution are necessary for waste treatment in industrial applications. Herein we present an interesting approach for the utilization of oxidized carbon nanotubes (CNTs) in the removal of phenolic compounds from aqueous solution. Dried pristine CNTs were stably incorporated in a solid porous support of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) facilitating the handling during both oxidation process of the nanomaterial and uptake of phenolic compounds, and enabling their safe disposal, avoiding expensive post-treatment processes. The adsorption studies indicated that the materials can efficiently remove phenolic compounds from water with different affinities towards different phenolic compounds. Furthermore, the adsorption kinetics and isotherms were studied in detail. The experimental data of adsorption fitted well with Langmuir and Freundlich isotherms, and pseudo-second-order kinetics, and the results indicated that the adsorption process was controlled by a two-step intraparticle diffusion model. The incorporation of CNTs in polymeric matrices did not affect their functionality in phenol uptake. The material was also successfully used for the removal of phenolic compounds from agricultural waste, suggesting its possible application in the treatment of wastewater. Moreover, the surface of the material could be regenerated, decreasing treatment costs.
Highlights
Petrochemical, pharmaceutical, steel, and agricultural industries produce a huge number of phenol and phenolic compounds, which are common contaminants in industrial wastes [1]
The present work describes the formation of a nanocomposite sponge made of PDMS and oxidized Multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWNTs) for the removal of phenolic compounds from water
The MWNT loading was performed during the fabrication of the sponge without the use of solvent and/or complex procedures
Summary
Petrochemical, pharmaceutical, steel, and agricultural industries produce a huge number of phenol and phenolic compounds, which are common contaminants in industrial wastes [1]. There is a need to develop energy efficient and low-cost methods to separate/remove phenolic compounds from aqueous wastes In this view, adsorption techniques can offer an attractive alternative. Carbon nanotube (CNT) materials have demonstrated good potential for adsorption of phenols from aqueous solutions [26,27,28]. Their large surface area, porosity, and functional groups are features that can enhance their adsorption efficiency [29]. The material recyclability is demonstrated, making the system an effective and low-cost method for phenol adsorption from aqueous wastewater
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