Green synthesis and characterization of MgO-graphene nanocomposite using Schinus molle (Qundo berbere) extract for the removal of copper ion from wastewater

Copper ions (Cu²⁺) pose significant risks to human health and the environment, leading to neurological disorders, gastrointestinal issues, and liver damage when exposure levels are high. To mitigate these risks, we developed a MgO-Graphene nanocomposite (MgO-Gr NC) for effective Cu²⁺ adsorption from contaminated water. The material was characterized using XRD and FTIR. We examined factors affecting adsorption, including pH, dosage, contact time, initial ion concentration, and temperature. The adsorption behavior adhered closely to the Freundlich isotherm model, with an R² of 0.9994 at 30 °C. Thermodynamic analysis indicated favorable adsorption conditions, with an R² of 0.9708, confirming the process is spontaneous and endothermic. Kinetic studies showed that the adsorption follows pseudo-first-order kinetics, with an R² of 0.9945. Our findings suggest that the green synthesis of MgO-Gr NC powder is a cost-effective, efficient, and eco-friendly adsorbent material, achieving up to 96 % removal of Cu(II) at pH 4. This demonstrates its potential as a viable commercial solution for environmental remediation. • The effectiveness of green-synthesized MgO-Gr NC for removing Cu(II) ions from wastewater investigated. • The effects of solution pH, contact time, initial ion concentration, and temperature on adsorption were studied. • Langmuir and Freundlich isotherm models were applied; Freundlich model fitted the equilibrium data best. • The removal efficiency of up to 96 % for Cu(II) ions at pH 4 within 90 min was achieved.