A highly stable mesoporous spinel ferrite (CoxFe3−xO4) derived from CoFe-MOF for efficient adsorption of ultratrace As(III) ions from aqueous solution

• Published in: Journal of environmental chemical engineering 2023-06, Vol.11 (3), p.110106, Article 110106
• Main Authors: Gopi, Sivalingam, Ramu, Adam Gopal, Yun, Kyusik
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Adsorption capacity; As(III); Metal–organic framework; Neutral pH; Water
• ISSN: 2213-3437
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jece.2023.110106

The mobility and toxicity of Arsenite (As (III)) hinder its removal from aquatic environments, posing a serious threat to human health. Nanoparticles based on a stable CoFe-based metal-organic framework (MOF) were produced and investigated for their potential application as an adsorbent in the process of removing arsenate from an aqueous environment, which is a major health concern. The synthesized materials were characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, Particle size analyzer, and electron microscopy techniques. Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) was used in order to carry out a comprehensive investigation of the As (III) elimination process. The synergistic effect between Co and Fe in the MOF enhances the arsenic removal efficiency to nearly 99% and enables a larger adsorption capacity. In addition, The adsorption efficiency was further investigated with respect to various parameters, including initial solution pH, adsorbent loading, co-existing ions, and contact time. This new CoxFe3−xO4 adsorbent has an impressive adsorption capability of 119.1 mg/g at neutral pH. The CoxFe3−xO4 adsorbent shows an efficient As(III) adsorption capacity compared with other adsorbents. The adsorption mechanism was found to involve metal-oxygen bonding, hydroxyl groups, and electrostatic interactions. Due to its superior adsorption capability, the CoxFe3−xO4 catalyst has the potential to be a useful material for the removal of arsenic from water. [Display omitted] •CoxFe3-xO4 was synthesized by solvothermal combined calcination for As(III) removal.•Synthesized material characterized using various analytical techniques.•Synergistic effect between Co and Fe enhances adsorption efficiency.•CoxFe3-xO4 shows impressive adsorption capability of 119.1 mg/g.•Adsorption mechanism involves metal-oxygen bonding, hydroxyl groups, and electrostatic interactions.