Exploring β‐FeOOH Nanorods as an Efficient Adsorbent for Arsenic and Organic Dyes

Abstract

AbstractExploring a light‐assisted solution chemistry route, we have demonstrated the synthesis of iron oxide nanorods in a large scale from an iron precursor under alkaline condition for the adsorption of toxic metals and organic contaminants from waste‐water. β‐FeOOH nanorods demonstrate an excellent binding capacity for As(III), As(V), and organic dyes, which are toxic and cause severe effect to the mankind if present in the drinking water beyond the permissible limit. The as‐prepared β‐FeOOH nanorods exhibit a monolayer molecular adsorption for As(III), As(V), and organic dyes and their adsorption follows pseudo‐second‐order kinetic model. The exceptional adsorption capacity of β‐FeOOH nanorods, accompanied by the convenient synthetic approach, represents an alternative and environmentally friendly approach to develop adsorbents for the extraction of toxic metals as well as organic dyes. Thus, these new insights will shed light in the societal needs of an adsorbent for cleaning‐up of both industrial effluents and ground water in a greener approach, which in turn will protect the environment and human being from several toxic effects.