Shooto N.D., Dikio E.D., Sikhwivhilu L., Wankasi D.
VUT, ZA
Keywords: adsorption, kinetics, MOFs, nanofibres, thermodynamics
In this study electrospun PVA nanofibres were functionalized with Fe-MOFs to synthesise a novel super adsorbing material. The synthesized material was characterized by scanning electron microscope (SEM), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). SEM micrograms showed that uniform and non-beaded nanofibres were fabricated. TGA plots showed PVA/Fe-MOF nanofibres exhibit higher decomposition temperature than PVA nanofibres. Thus, it confirmed the interactive force between PVA nanofibres and Fe-MOF. FTIR spectra also exhibited shifts in critical functional groups positions thus it confirmed that there was a given amount of Fe-MOF embedded in the electrospun fibrous mat. Batch adsorption studies were carried out to analyse the adsorption of lead ions in aqueous solution. Factors influencing adsorption of lead ions onto PVA nanofibres and functionalized PVA nanofibres (PVA/Fe-MOF) such as concentration, contact time and temperature were investigated. The thermodynamic parameters: apparent enthalpy (∆Ho) and entropy (∆So) showed that the adsorption of lead ions onto the electrospun nanofibres was spontaneous and exothermic respectively.
Journal: TechConnect Briefs
Volume: 4, Advanced Manufacturing, Electronics and Microsystems: TechConnect Briefs 2016
Published: May 22, 2016
Pages: 35 - 37
Industry sector: Advanced Materials & Manufacturing
Topic: Advanced Manufacturing
ISBN: 978-0-9975-1173-4