Highly efficient and simultaneous remediation of heavy metal ions (Pb(II), Hg(II), As(V), As(III) and Cr(VI)) from water using Ce intercalated and ceria decorated titanate nanotubes

Abstract

Presence of heavy metal ionic contaminants in water is a matter of global concern, owing to their disastrous impact on human health and environment. Cerium intercalated, ceria decorated titanate nanotubes (CCTNT) was developed for efficient adsorption of toxic heavy metal ions: Pb(II),Hg(II),As(V),As(III) and Cr(VI) from water. The phase and structure of the material was confirmed using XRD, FTIR and Raman analysis. The TEM images established the morphology. The chemical properties of the surface were confirmed using the EDS and XPS analysis. The surface area was measured using the BET method. The adsorptive properties of CCTNT were evaluated in the batch mode. It was observed that CCTNT, with wide pH window for adsorption of heavy metal ions, is applicable for both groundwater and wastewater remediation. In addition, it exhibited ultrafast adsorption of all five contaminants using a low adsorbent dosage. The Langmuir adsorption capacities of the adsorbent were calculated to be 66.76, 97.18, 189.59, 199.80, 288.23 mg/g respectively for the removal of Cr(VI),Pb(II),As(V), Hg(II) and As(III) from water. CCTNT is further suitable for highly efficient and simultaneous removal of all five heavy metal ions water. These attractive properties make CCTNT a superior material for adsorption of heavy metal ions from water.