Removal of Cr(VI) from an Aqueous Solution via a Metal Organic Framework (Ce-MOF-808)

Hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) is a carcinogenic and highly mobile pollutant in aquatic environments. In this study, three cerium-based metal–organic frameworks (Ce-UiO-66, Ce-UiO-66-NO2, and Ce-MOF-808) were synthesized and evaluated for their ability to remove Cr(VI) from aqueous solutions. Among the frameworks studied, Ce-MOF-808 exhibited the highest adsorption capacity and was selected for detailed investigation. To elucidate its structure and adsorption behavior, Ce-MOF-808 was characterized using XRD, FT-IR, SEM-EDS, TG-DTA, XPS, and Zeta potential analyses. The zeta potential results showed that the adsorbent surface remained positively charged in the pH range of 2.8–8.6, enabling electrostatic attraction toward anionic chromate species. XPS further revealed valence transitions between Ce3+/Ce4+ and Cr(VI)/Cr(III), demonstrating the occurrence of partial redox transformation during adsorption. Batch experiments showed that the adsorption was strongly pH-dependent and favored acidic conditions (pH 2). The kinetics followed the pseudo-second-order model, whereas the isotherm data were better described by the Langmuir model, yielding a maximum adsorption capacity of 42.74 mg/g. Thermodynamic analysis indicated a spontaneous and exothermic process. Moreover, Ce-MOF-808 maintained high Cr(VI) uptake in real water samples, demonstrating its environmental applicability. Overall, Ce-MOF-808 is a promising redox-active adsorbent for efficient Cr(VI) removal in water treatment applications.