Synthesis of FeO@PVBC-TMT nanoparticles for the efficient removal of heavy metals ions.

Core-shell magnetic FeO@PVBC-TMT (FeO@polyvinylbenzyl chloride-trithiocyanuric acid) nanoparticles containing trithiocyanuric acid groups were fabricated and employed for the fast removal of heavy metals from an aquatic environment. The morphology, structure and properties of FeO@PVBC-TMT nanoparticles were characterized by a series of modern analytical tools. The adsorption behavior of the FeO@PVBC-TMT nanoparticles for heavy metals ions in aqueous solutions was investigated by batch experiments. The maximum removal capacities of the FeO@PVBC-TMT nanoparticles toward Mn, Ni, Cu, Cd and Pb ions were 127.4, 146.6, 180.5, 311.5, and 528.8 mg g, respectively. Importantly, it is found that Pb ions can be completely and quickly removed by the FeO@PVBC-TMT nanoparticles. The equilibrium was established within 6 min, and the removal efficiencies were found to be 99.9%, 99.8% and 99.5% for Pb ions at the initial concentrations of 100 mg L, 200 mg L and 300 mg L, respectively. It is hoped that the core-shell magnetic FeO@PVBC-TMT nanoparticles may find application in wastewater treatment.