Abstract
Grainy Hal-CNT composites were prepared from powder halloysite nanoclay (Hal) and carbon nanotubes (CNTs). The effect of the amount and type of CNTs, as well as calcination temperature on morphology and properties of Hal-CNT composites and their adsorption capacity of anthracene (ANT), were studied. The surface topography of granules was heterogenous, with cracks and channels created during granulation of powder clay and CNTs. In FTIR, spectra were exhibited only in the bands arising from halloysite, due to its dominance in the granules. The increase in the heating temperature to 550 °C resulted in mesoporosity/macroporosity of the granules, the lowest specific surface area (SSA) and poorest adsorption potential. Overall, SSA of all Hal-CNT composites were higher than raw Hal, and by itself, heated halloysite. The larger amount of CNTs enhanced adsorption kinetics due to the more external adsorption sites. The equilibrium was established with the contact time of approximately 30 min for the sample Hal-SWCNT 85:15, while the samples with loading 96:4, it was 60–90 min. Adsorption isotherms for ANT showed L1 type, which is representative for the sorbents with limited adsorption capacity. The Langmuir model described the adsorption process, suggesting a monolayer covering. The sample Hal-SWCNT 85:15 exhibited the highest adsorption capacity of ANT, due to its highest SSA and microporous character.
Highlights
Anthracene (ANT) is organic compound belonging to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and has been identified by European Parliament in Water Framework Directive as dangerous and a priority substance due to its carcinogenic and teratogenic effects and potential for bioaccumulation
This study demonstrates that halloysite-carbon nanotubes composites can be regarded as a novel sorbent for the removal of ANT from water matrices
The use of single walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNT)-OH seems to be less worth in terms to adsorption capacity for anthracene, they could be more attractive for dissociated forms of other pollutants due to the interaction between their functional groups and OH from SWCNT-OH
Summary
Anthracene (ANT) is organic compound belonging to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and has been identified by European Parliament in Water Framework Directive as dangerous and a priority substance due to its carcinogenic and teratogenic effects and potential for bioaccumulation. PAHs occur in aquatic environment as a consequence of: (1) Exploitation and utilization of petroleum; (2) incomplete combustion of fossil fuels; and (3) biogenic natural sources. They migrate into water sources by a deposition or direct discharge of fuel and oil products. PAHs contamination is present worldwide in sea water and surface water [2,3,4]. Accumulated PAHs in water sediments are considered as a re-emission source and pose additional concern due to the hazardous health effect when contaminating drinking water sources [5]. It is important to reduce the risk related to PAHs occurrence in water by implementing efficient methods in water treatment technologies
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