Enhanced Fe-C micro-electrolytic reduction for Cu2+ removal, the important role of magnetic fields

Abstract

Performance enhancement of Fe-C materials for Cu2+ removal, removal capacity, and pH range of applicability is achieved through the environmentally friendly, long-lasting magnetic fields in this study. Specifically, the utilization of the magnetic field to the Fe-C materials significantly improves the performance of Cu2+ removal in contrast to the single Fe-C, which also brings about improvement under various water condition parameters. The concentrations of Cu2+, Cu+, Fe2+ and Fe3+ in solution were monitored, and the relevant properties of Fe-C materials were characterised. Results showed that Cu2+ was removed by reduction of Fe-C material either in solution or after adsorption onto the surface of the material. Additionally, the magnetic field accelerated the exposure of the active sites present in the material, leading to the acceleration of adsorption of Fe-C to Cu2+ for reduction and removal, as well as accelerating mass transfer. In addition, the magnetic field facilitated Fe-C materials' active sites and expedited the adsorption of Fe-C onto Cu2+ for reduction and removal, as well as accelerated mass transport. Furthermore, it was verified that MF maintained a positive reinforcing impact on the Fe-C micro-electrolysis system for eliminating other heavy metal ions, with a particular emphasis on paramagnetic heavy metal ions. This research has expanded our understanding of the mechanism underlying Fe-C/MF micro-electrolysis system, and aided in the application in Fe-C/MF micro-electrolysis system for the remediation of heavy metal ions present in water environment.