Abstract

This paper describes the preparation of a membrane of polyacrylonitrile (PAN) and its corresponding membrane coated with polyaniline (PANI) for the adsorption of heavy metal ions. Scanning electron microscopy micrographs revealed that all the membranes exhibited nanofibrous morphology. The prepared membranes were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The prepared membranes were used as an adsorbent for hazardous heavy metal ions Pb2+ and Cr2O72−. The adsorption capacity and the removal efficiency of the membranes were examined as function of the initial adsorbate concentration and pH of the medium. Coated membranes with PANI showed better adsorption performance and their direct current (DC) conductivities were correlated to heavy metal ion concentrations. Adsorption isotherms were also performed, and the adsorption process was tested according to the Langmuir and Freundlich models. The regeneration and reuse of the prepared membranes to re-adsorb heavy metal ions were also investigated. The enhancement in adsorption performance and reusability of PANI-coated membranes in comparison with non-coated ones is fully discussed. The results show that the maximum adsorption capacities of lead and chromate ions on the PANI-coated membranes are 290.12 and 1 202.53 mg/g, respectively.

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.