Nano zero-valent iron supported by macroporous styrene ion exchange resin for enhanced Cr(VI) removal from aqueous solution

Abstract

In view of problem that nanoscale zero-valent (nZVI) is easy to agglomerate and deactivate in the process of wastewater treatment, a styrene-based ion exchange resin D201 is selected as the carrier to load it. D201-loaded nZVI (D201@nZVI) was applied to treat simulated Cr(VI) wastewater. Receiving the effect and influence of electrostatic attraction, Cr(VI) will attach to D201@nZVI, partly reduced to Cr(III) by nZVI to form Cr_xFe_1−x(OH)₃ co-precipitation. D201@nZVI shows good treatment capacity of a wide pH range, and excellent regeneration performance. The removal rate and maximum adsorption amounts of 50 mg L⁻¹ Cr(VI) reached 100% and 123.14 mg g⁻¹, respectively. D201@nZVI has promising potential to be applied in situ groundwater remediation.

Graphical Abstract

Keywords:

• Nanoscale zero-valent
• resin D201
• Cr(VI)
• adsorption
• reduction