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Sustainable Strategy for Microplastic Mitigation: Fe3O4 Acid-Functionalized Magnetic Nanoparticles for Microplastics Removal
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Scientists created magnetic nanoparticles coated with citric acid that can remove up to 80% of common microplastics (polyethylene and polypropylene) from water using a simple magnetic separation process. The material can be reused up to five times while still maintaining over 50% removal efficiency. This type of reusable, low-impact technology could help water treatment facilities better remove microplastics, reducing the amount that reaches drinking water supplies.
Microplastic (MPs) pollution has emerged as a critical environmental issue due to its persistent accumulation in ecosystems, posing risks to aquatic life, food safety, and human health. In this study, magnetic Fe3O4 nanoparticles functionalized with citric acid (Fe3O4@AC) were used to remove high-density polyethylene (HDPE), low-density polyethylene (LDPE), and polypropylene (PP) MPs from an aqueous medium. Fe3O4@AC was synthesized via the coprecipitation method and characterized by morphology (SEM), crystalline phases (XRD), chemical aspects (FTIR), and surface area (nitrogen sorption isotherms). The MPs removal efficiency of Fe3O4@AC was evaluated based on the initial concentration, contact time, and pH. The adsorption isotherm and kinetics data were best described by the Sips and pseudo-second-order models, respectively. Fe3O4@AC removed 80% of the MPs at a pH of 6. Based on experimental observations (zeta potential, porosity, and SEM) and theoretical insights, it was concluded that hydrogen bonding, pore filling, and van der Waals forces governed the adsorption mechanism. Reusability tests showed that Fe3O4@AC could be reused up to five times, with a removal efficiency above 50%. These findings suggest that Fe3O4@AC is a sustainable and promising material for the efficient removal of microplastics from wastewater, offering a reusable and low-impact alternative that contributes to environmentally responsible wastewater treatment strategies.
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