Simple synthesis of Ce/Cu/Fe nanoparticle-modified activated carbon for the removal of F(Ⅰ)

This work reports a method to prepare metal-modified adsorbents using itaconic acid fermentation waste liquid (IAFWS) and apply them to the removal of fluoride ions from fluorinated wastewater. Three metals (Fe, Cu and Ce) were used to modify the activated carbon and three adsorbents were obtained (Fe/C, Cu/Fe/C and Ce/Fe/C). The adsorption capacities of Fe/C and Cu/Fe/C reach the highest at pH=6, which are 52.1 mg/g and 56.3 mg/g, respectively. The optimum pH of Ce/Fe/C adsorption is 7, and the adsorption capacity is 61.2 mg/g. The optimal pH of the three adsorbents is in the general pH range of fluorinated wastewater. The adsorbent has an extremely long service life and its performance remains stable after 8 cycles. The results show that all three adsorbents can be used for F- removal in water for many times, but Ce/Fe/C has the best adsorption performance. This study not only solves the problem of treatment of IAFWS, but also applies it to the degradation of fluoride ions in water, achieving a dual role in environmental protection.