Properties of Anthracite-Based Sorbent before and after Ferrous Ion Sorption

The texture and surface state of Purolat Standard sorbent are studied before and after the sorption of ferrous ions from aqueous solutions, by various instrumental methods. The presence of iron at the surface largely affects the sorbent’s organic compound. The extraction of iron is accompanied by partial destruction of the sorbent surface, possibly as a result of both the oxidation of amorphous carbon and the conversion of phenol and simple ester groups to carboxyl groups. The adsorption of iron ions may occur mainly by ion exchange but also by complex formation with groups at the carbon surface. IR spectroscopy suggests that the ferrous ions are adsorbed at the surface in the form of hydrated complexes.