Synthesis of a new nanocomposite based-on graphene-oxide for selective removal of Pb2+ ions from aqueous solutions

In this study, a new nanocomposite was synthesized based on graphene-oxide (GO) for the selective removal of Pb2+ ions from aqueous solutions. In the first step, the GO was synthesized from graphite. Then amino-telechelic poly (hexamethylenediisocyanate-co-propylene glycol) (THMDI-PG) was synthesized. Finally, The GO was reacted with the THMDI-PG to obtain the final nanocomposite. The prepared nanocomposite was then used as the heavy metal ions adsorbent in Pb2+ and binary ionic metal media and showed a selective behavior toward the Pb2+ ions. The abundant oxygen-containing groups on the surfaces of nanocomposite played an important role in Pb2+ ion adsorption on GO and the adsorption was dependent on pH values and independent of ionic strength. Different analysis such as Fourier transform infrared, thermogravimetric analysis, and scanning electron microscopy were carried out to characterize the prepared nanocomposite. Moreover, the effect of various adsorption parameters such as pH, adsorbent dose, adsorption time, temperature, agitation speed, and initial concentration of the ions were investigated and optimized. The obtained results showed an efficient performance of the prepared nanocomposite for the removal of the Pb2+ ions. POLYM. COMPOS., 40:730-737, 2019. (c) 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers