Amino-functionalised cross-linked polyacrylamide for the adsorption of U(VI) ions from contaminated aqueous solutions

ABSTRACT

The present work discusses the adsorption of U(VI) ions from aqueous solutions using amino-functionalised cross-linked polyacrylamide adsorbent. Functional groups identification and surface morphology of the prepared polymeric adsorbent were explored by Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR), elemental analysis and Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) techniques. The adsorption of U(VI) ions from aqueous solutions using the prepared polymeric adsorbent was studied and the optimum adsorption conditions were addressed. The results showed that a maximum adsorption capacity of 68.6 mg/g could be achieved at room temperature under the following conditions; solution pH 4.0, contact time 240 min and adsorbent dose 0.7 g/ L. The adsorption process was found to follow Langmuir isotherm model with pseudo-second order kinetic mechanism. Moreover, the thermodynamic studies suggested that the adsorption process is spontaneous and exothermic. Experiments on the adsorbent regeneration and reusability were carried out and the results were promising. As a final point, the prepared polymeric adsorbent was applied for the removal of U(VI) ions from real contaminated sample and about 96% of U(VI) ions were removed in a single run.

KEYWORDS:

• Uranium
• adsorption
• wastewater
• polymer
• complexation

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

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