Itaconic Acid-Functionalized Magnetic Latex Particles for Pb2 + Removal

What is it about?

Submicron magnetic latex particles bearing a cross linked shell of itaconic acid were prepared and then used for adsorption and desorption of Pb2+ ions from their aqueous solutions. The synthesis was performed via seeded emulsion polymerization in two successive steps, including the encapsulation of preformed oil-in-water magnetic emulsion using divinylbenzene (DVB) to obtain magnetic core and poly(divinylbenzene) shell latex particles (MPDVB). Then, the prepared MP-DVB latex particles were functionalized using itaconic acid monomer to prepare MP-DVB-IA magnetic particles. The prepared particles were characterized in terms of colloidal and surface properties using FTIR, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), hydrodynamic particle size, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and zeta-potential measurements. The adsorption study of Pb2+ was performed via batch method by investigating the adsorption kinetic, effect of pH and adsorption isotherms. The equilibrium data were analyzed using Langmuir, Freundlich and Temkin isotherm models to calculate isotherm constants. In addition, the prepared magnetic latex particles MP-DVB-IA could be repeatedly used for adsorption and desorption of the used metal ion.

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Why is it important?

The prepared magnetic latex particles MP-DVB-IA can be used easily for the removal of heavy metal ions from aqueous solutions. Also, it can be separated fastly and easily using an external magnetic field. Moreover, The prepared magnetic latex particles can be regenerated (activated) and used repeatedly for the adsorption of heavy metal ions without loss of their adsorption activity.

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