Isotherm and Thermodynamic Investigation on Removal of Pb(II) from Aqueous Solutions by Graphene Oxide and Magnetic Graphene Oxide: A Comparative Study

One of the most effective approaches for removing heavy metal ions from an aqueous solution is adsorption. However, the synthesis of adsorbents with intended selectivity and performance is a major obstacle in the fight against water pollution. The objective of this investigation is to address the constraints of Graphene Oxide (GO) as an adsorbent by synthesizing Magnetic Graphene Oxide (MGO). Both GO and MGO were synthesized, and their adsorption capacity for heavy metal ions such as lead (Pb (II)) was investigated. The maximum adsorption capacities (Qmax) of GO and MGO under optimal conditions (pH = 6, temperature = 50℃, and contact time = 20 minutes) were determined to be 46.19 mg/g and 49.8 mg/g, respectively. This indicates that magnetizing graphene oxide with iron oxide nanoparticles not only addresses its separation challenges but also enhances its adsorption capacity. Thermodynamic analyses indicated that the adsorption process was spontaneous and endothermic.