Raw Smectite from the Guarapuava–Parana–Brasil Saturated with Copper Ions and Its Properties

Abstract

In this study, raw smectite (Sm), from the Guarapuava–Parana–Brasil region, was saturated with copper ions (Cu-Sm) by ion exchange and the samples Sm and Cu-Sm were used in crystal violet (CV) adsorption and applied as an antimicrobial and antifungal hybrid pigment. Samples (Sm and Cu-Sm) were used to remove crystal violet (CV) dye from aqueous media, simulating wastewater. Samples after use as adsorbents were characterized and named smectite/adsorbed dye (Sm/Dye) and copper smectite/adsorbed dye (Cu-Sm/Dye); and they were applied as hybrid pigments with antimicrobial action. The Sm and Cu-Sm were characterized by X-ray diffractometry (XRD), energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence (EDXRF), vibrational spectroscopy (FTIR), Zeta potential (ζ), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and colorimetry (CIE L*a*b*), enabling the identification of the presence of intercalated copper ions and on the smectite surface. The adsorption assays were carried out to evaluate the effects of initial dye concentration and contact time. Tests for application as a hybrid pigment showed good compatibility with commercial white paint being applied on plaster blocks and later photoaging and chemical stability tests were performed in acid and basic environments, both were discussed by colorimetry (CIE L*a*b*), thus being able to relate it to the color variation (∆E). The samples (Sm, Cu-Sm, Sm/Dye, and Cu-Sm/Dye) were dispersed in white paint at 10% and 20% (% w/w) to evaluate the ability to inhibit different microorganisms. The modification with copper ions promoted an increase in the adsorptive capacity relative to the raw smectite and provided antibacterial and antifungal action to the hybrid pigment against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Listeria monocytogenes, and Candida albicans. The Cu-Sm and Cu-Sm/Dye samples showed excellent results against all studied microorganisms and reveal successful materials that can be used in environments that require microbiological protection.