Enhancing Nickel-Ion Adsorption: Insights into Phytate Sodium Salt Modification of Styrene-Butadiene-Styrene Triblock Copolymer Electrospun Fiber Membranes

Abstract

The escalating threat of heavy metal pollution poses a severe risk to human health, necessitating efficient remediation technologies. Current approaches encounter challenges such as suboptimal efficacy, prohibitive costs, prolonged treatment times, and the requirement for additional sludge management. In contrast, adsorption methods present notable advantages, including heightened removal efficiency, cost-effectiveness, technological versatility, and expeditious operation. This study focuses on the fabrication and characterization of a sodium phytate-modified electrospun styrene-butadiene-styrene (ESBS) fiber membrane, synthesized via electrospinning technology employing styrene-butadiene-styrene triblock copolymer as the raw material. The resultant membrane underwent comprehensive analysis using scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectrometry, and surface tensiometry. Investigations revealed that the adsorption capacity of the sodium phytate-modified ESBS fiber membrane for nickel ions exhibited a temperature-dependent decrease. At pH 7.5 and operating conditions of 20 °C and 150 r/min, equilibrium adsorption was achieved within 50 min, with an impressive adsorption capacity of 420.99 mg/g for a nickel ion solution at a concentration of 20 mg/L. This research not only provides valuable insights into the nuanced interplay between temperature and adsorption capacity but also offers a promising avenue for heavy metal treatment. The sodium phytate-modified ESBS electrospun fiber membrane stands as a compelling solution, showcasing its potential as an effective and sustainable strategy for mitigating heavy metal pollution.