Adsorption of Fe(III) using Fe3O4@MNPs modified with Silica through a simple and time-saving method: Optimization by RSM

Abstract

This study aims to develop a simple method for preparing modified magnetic nanoparticles. This is created by preparing Fe₃O₄ nanoparticles modified with Silica (Fe₃O₄@MNPs@Silica) using a quick, simple, and easy solid-phase extraction approach for Fe(III) removal from aqueous solutions.  This nanocomposite was characterized using FTIR, XRD, and SEM analysis. In this context the optimization of Fe(III) adsorption by silica-coated Fe₃O₄ nanoparticles was studied. The effects of various parameters such as pH, adsorbent dosage, initial concentration, and time on the adsorption process were investigated. It was found that the adsorption capacity of Fe(III) increased with increasing adsorbent dosage and initial concentration and decreased with increasing pH and time. The experimental adsorption conditions were optimized using Response Surface Methodology (RSM). Fe₃O₄@MNPs@Silica adsorbent has an adsorption capacity of 3.870 mmol-Fe(III) g^–1, at pH = 2.5. This confirms a high affinity of Fe₃O₄@MNPs@Silica towards Fe(III).