Developing and characterizing magnetic nanocomposites for effective metal ion removal in wastewater treatment

This research explores the synthesis and application of magnetic nanocomposites as effective adsorbents for the removal of metal ions from wastewater. Using a chemical co-precipitation method, Fe3O4 nanoparticles were modified with branched polyethyleneimine and stover activated carbon,yiclding Fe3O4 /BranchedPolyethylencimine and Fe3O4 pherical-Activated-Carbon adsorbents. These materials were thoroughly characterized to confirm their functional groups and optimized surface structure for heavy metal uptake. Thanks to their paramagnetic properties, the adsorbents are easily recovered and readily recycled. Adsorption efficiency was systematically evaluated by varying contact time, Cu2+ concentration, and adsorbent dosage. Isotherm and kinetic models were applied to elucidate the adsorption mechanisms, with Fe3O4/BranchedPolyethyleneimine best described by the pseudo-second order kinetic model and the Sips isotherm. This study not only provides empirical evidence of the adsorbents’ efficacy but also lays a conceptual foundation for their practical implementation in industrial wastewater treatment applications, paving the way for future advancements in adsorbent technology. Document Type: Original article Cited as: Sun, Y., Wei, Z., Bian, D., Zhou, J. Developing and characterizing magnetic nanocomposites for effective metal ion removal in wastewater treatment. Capillarity, 2025, 16(2): 51-60. https://doi.org/10.46690/capi.2025.08.03