Removal of Cu (II) Ions by a Novel Starch-Based Adsorbent from Aqueous Solution

Abstract

A novel starch-based material, designated as DASU-EDTA, was firstly prepared by the reaction of EDTA anhydride with previously synthesized dialdehyde urea starch (DASU). This material was characterized by IR spectroscopy and used as an adsorbent to remove Cu (II) ions from aqueous solution. The IR results showed EDTA was successfully attached to the glucose units of starch, and DASU-EDTA was one of starch amides derivatives. The adsorption tests revealed that the adsorption of DASU-EDTA for Cu (II) ions was an endothermic process, which mainly relied on the strong chelation of EDTA to metal ions. The optimal conditions should be controlled at pH 5.0 and 120min. In addition, it was found that the high initial concentration of Cu (II) ions was favorable for the adsorption of DASU-EDTA for Cu (II) ions.