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Microplastics are widespread in facility strawberry greenhouses and can be deposited on the surface of strawberries through air currents. Investigating effective cleaning methods represents a viable strategy to reduce human ingestion of MPs. Therefore, different cleaning methods were compared: ultrasonic cleaning for 30 min, deionized water rinsing once, deionized water immersion for 30 min, and fruit immersion in washing salt for 30 min. The MPs in strawberry washing water were analyzed and compared using laser direct infrared imaging to investigate their characteristics and the optimal reduction of MPs on the surface of strawberries. The quality of the cleaning results was in the following order: water immersion > washing salt immersion > water rinsing > ultrasound. Water immersion was 1.3–2 times more effective in removing microplastics than other treatments. Furthermore, 21 polymer types were detected in the samples. Most MPs were less than 50 µm in size. The main polymers in this size range were polyamide, chlorinated polyethylene, and polyethylene terephthalate, and they mainly existed as fragments, fibers, and beads. This study provides a valuable reference for reducing human intake of microplastics through fresh fruits and vegetables. [Display omitted] • Water immersion minimizes microplastics on the surface of strawberries. • The surface microplastics on strawberries were detected by LDIR with Cryo-SEM. • 21 polymer types of MPs were identified by the laser infrared imaging spectrometer. • Microplastic contamination in strawberry wash water: 32.79–115.81 item·cm–2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The efficient recovery of nickel from chloride systems has long presented a challenge in the field. While solvent extraction is a viable approach, conventional extractants have been associated with drawbacks such as a high requirement for chloride ions and substantial consumption of acids and alkalis. In response to these challenges, this investigation developed and synthesized a novel thiazole-based extractant, N, N-Bis(4-thiazolylmethyl)octylamine (NNBT), tailored for the selective extraction of nickel from chloride systems. Findings from the study indicate that the nitrogen atom situated on the benzylamine framework within NNBT can interact synergistically with the chelating thiazole ring, facilitating effective nickel extraction and notably reducing the need for chloride ions. Furthermore, the extractant can be regenerated using deionized water, thereby obviating the necessity for additional consumption of acids and alkalis. Following the validation of NNBT as an environmentally sustainable and efficient nickel extractant within the chloride ion system, it was successfully employed to selectively and effectively extract nickel from the nickel-aluminum slag of spent HDP catalyst. The extracted nickel and aluminum were subsequently processed into electroplated nickel chloride and polyaluminum chloride, respectively, meeting the national standards of China. These outcomes underscore the eco-friendliness and promise of NNBT for nickel extraction from chloride systems. [Display omitted] • A more stable chelating extractant for nickel was designed and synthesized. • The nickel extraction mechanism in the chlorination system was revealed. • Efficient utilization of nickel-aluminum slag from spent catalysts. • Clean water achieves the nickel stripping and extractant regeneration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The complex of heavy metals and organic acids leads to high difficulty in heavy metals separation by traditional technologies. Meanwhile, alkaline precipitation commonly used in industry causes the great consumption of resources and extra pollution. Herein, the effective decomplexation of Cu(Ⅱ)-EDTA and synchronous recycling of Cu2+ were realized by contact-electro-catalysis (CEC) coupled with capacitive deionization (CDI) innovatively. In particular, fluorinated ethylene propylene (FEP) as dielectric powders could generate reactive oxygen species under ultrasonic stimulation, realizing continuous deaminization and decarboxylation of Cu(Ⅱ)-EDTA and accelerating the totally breakage of Cu-O and Cu-N bonds. Additionally, the degradation pathway and intermediates evolution of Cu(Ⅱ)-EDTA were investigated using various characterization methods. It was confirmed that decarboxylation predominantly governed the degradation process of Cu(Ⅱ)-EDTA in CEC. During the course of treatment, the degradation ratio of Cu(Ⅱ)-EDTA reached 86.4 % within 150 min. Impressively, this strategy had satisfactory applicability to other metal combinations and excellent cycle stability. Subsequently, the released Cu ions were captured by CuSe cathode electrode through CDI. This research elucidated the degradation mechanism of persistent organic pollutant during CEC, and provided a novel approach for efficiently treating industrial wastewater containing metal complexes and advancing the exploitation and utilization of new technologies for metal recovery. [Display omitted] • The reactive oxygen species were generated in CEC without extra oxidants. • FEP as dielectric powders could effectively degrade Cu(Ⅱ)-EDTA in CEC. • CEC coupled CDI could degrade Cu(Ⅱ)-EDTA and directly capture Cu2+. • The decomplexation of Cu(Ⅱ)-EDTA in CEC was dominated by decarboxylation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fluoride (F−) pollution in groundwater is an important environmental issue and capacitive deionization (CDI) holds promise for defluorination at moderate concentrations (e.g., 200 −1000 mg L−1). However, existing electrodes suffer from the overlap of electrical-double-layer (EDL) and severe co-ion effects at low (e.g., <200 mg L−1) and high sodium fluoride (NaF) concentrations (e.g., >1000 mg L−1), respectively, exhibiting poor salt adsorption capacity (SAC). Hence, a three-layer structured electrode, "membrane/carbon nanotube (CNT)/activated carbon (AC)" (CNT-MCE), was prepared through electrospinning CNT onto AC, followed by a polymer membrane coating. Compared to AC and membrane coated electrode, CNT-MCE with mesopore-dominated structure prevented EDL overlap, achieving a higher SAC of 40.8 mg g−1 at 100 mg L−1 NaF. At 1500 mg L−1 NaF, the positively charged CNT-MCE exhibited an improved SAC of 58.8 mg g−1 by inhibiting co-ion effects. Meanwhile, CNT-MCE consistently demonstrated superb SACs at 200 − 800 mg L−1 NaF and maintained excellent stability over a wide concentration gradient by inhibiting severe oxidation. Notably, CNT-MCE successfully decreased the F− concentration in simulated groundwater from 3.4 to 1.1 mg L−1. Overall, our work provides an efficient strategy of electrode design to broaden the applicability of CDI for groundwater defluorination over a wide concentration gradient. [Display omitted] • Three-layer structured membrane coating electrode was prepared for F- removal. • High F- adsorption capacities were obtained over the wide concentration gradient. • Mesopore-dominated structure overcame the overlapping of electrical double layer. • Positively charged polymer membrane inhibited the serious co-ion repulsion effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As an eco-friendly technique with the superior adsorption performance, electroadsorption has shown great potential for application in uranium (U(VI)) recovery in recent years. However, the electrodes used in the electrosorption generally suffer the adsorbent to be loaded on the conductors, which greatly limited the adsorption performance of the electrodes for uranyl ions. In present study, a flexible self-supporting Na 3 MnTi(PO 4) 3 @C fibers (NMTP@C fibers) electrode material was rationally designed and prepared by electrostatic spinning method and annealing technique, and its ability to capture U(VI) efficiently was preliminarily demonstrated by batch adsorption and electro sorption. The plentiful phosphate groups provide sufficient active sites for adsorption, while the axially continuous electron conduction and radially short-range ion transport give NMTP@C fibers fast charge/ion transport capability. The NMTP@C fiber can remove 99% of 5 ppm U(VI) in seawater by electro absorption within 1 h. After several cycles of adsorption under seawater conditions, the adsorbent can still maintain a stable adsorption capacity. The adsorption mechanism of NMTP@C nanofibers for U(VI) was investigated by XPS, FT-IR, Raman, SEM-EDS, and XRD, which was electrostatic interactions and surface complexation. These results suggest that NMTP@C fibers are promising high-capacity adsorbents for efficient and selective capture of U(VI) from seawater. [Display omitted] • Na 3 MnTi(PO 4) 3 @C was rationally designed as flexible self-supporting electrode. • Na 3 MnTi(PO 4) 3 @C is ecofriendly, low cost and low energy consumption. • Na 3 MnTi(PO 4) 3 @C exhibit high selectivity and uptake capacity for U(VI) with remarkable reusability. • U(VI) adsorption mechanism involves electrostatic interactions and surface complexation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fluorinated compounds are a class of organic substances resistant to degradation. Although zero-valent iron (Fe0) has a promising reducing capability, it still fails to degrade fluorine-containing antibiotics (i.e., florfenicol) efficiently. In this study, we applied a simple one-pot pyrolytic approach to synthesize nitrogen-doped biochar supported Fe0 and zero-valent copper (Cu0) composite (Fe/Cu@NBC) and investigated its performance on florfenicol removal. The results clearly showed that approximately 91.4% of florfenicol in the deionized water was removed by Fe/Cu@NBC within 8 h. As the reaction time was extended to 15 d, the total degradation rate of florfenicol reached 96.6%, in which the defluorination and dechlorination rates were 73.2% and 82.1%, respectively. Both experimental results and density functional theory calculation suggested that ∙OH and ·O 2 − triggered β-fluorine elimination, resulting in defluorination prior to dechlorination. This new finding was distinct from previous viewpoints that defluorination was more difficult to occur than dechlorination. Fe/Cu@NBC also had a favorable performance for removal of florfenicol in surface water. This study provides a new insight into the degradation mechanism and pathway of florfenicol removal in the Fe/Cu@NBC system, which can be a promising alternative for remediation of fluorinated organic compounds in the environment. [Display omitted] • Fe/Cu@NBC was successfully synthesized with a simple one-pot pyrolytic approach. • An efficient florfenicol removal as high as 91.4% was achieved within 8 h. • ·O 2 − played a dominant role in the defluorination of florfenicol via β-elimination reaction. • Florfenicol degradation pathway followed firstly defluorination and subsequent dechlorination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Tailor-made Thin film Poly(piperizinamide) Composite membrane including copper moiety. • Selectivity in bivalent- monovalent salt depends on the sequence of reagents during interfacial polymerization. • Separation behavior of mono and disaccharides for all the membranes. • Separation behavior of Hexaconazole in different water matrices. • Development of antibacterial property related to E. Coli and Bacillus subtilis. Thin film Poly(piperazine-amide) composite membranes using sequential interfacial polymerization with tuning by Cu2+ have brought significant findings in it. The hydrophobicity is relatively enhanced for the copper containing membranes. The membrane in which copper solution is applied prior to piperizine (Memb-III) exhibits higher hydrophobicity where as membrane (Memb-II) in which copper solution is applied following piperizine, possesses higher roughness compared to other two. Filtration experiments in terms of salts, mono/disaccharides and hexaconazole indicate that modified membranes are of different behaviours according to their sequence of preparative methods. Memb-III has shown lower SO 4 =/Cl− selectivity compared to Memb-II (i.e. 3.92), though they are in different range. The unmodified membrane (Memb-I) exhibits SO 4 =/Cl− selectivity 3.23 is in the same scale of Memb-III (2.27). Memb-III exhibits higher hexaconazole separation (91.5%) compared to Memb-II (i.e. 53.9%). The flux decline follows the order: field water > tap water > deionized water. The copper incorporated membrane (Memb-II) has shown a low flux decline compared to Memb-III as well as Memb-I. The antibacterial properties towards E. Coli and Bacillus subtilis are well reflected. The copper containing membranes have promising antibacterial properties and follows the order Memb-II > Memb-III > Memb-I. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • The combined freeze-thaw and soil washing method for remediation of heavy metal contaminated clay soils is proposed. • The method can improve removal efficiency due to repeated freeze-thaw destroying soil particle structure. • The washing efficiency can be guaranteed at low liquid/soil ratios through combined freeze-thaw and soil washing. • To provide basis for remediating heavy metal contaminated soils in seasonal frozen area by using natural cold energy. Abstract To improve the washing efficiency for low-permeability clay, the method of freeze-thaw synergistic chemical washing was put forward to study the cadmium (Cd)-and lead (Pb)- real-site contaminated soils as the research object and ethylene diaminete traacetic acid (EDTA) was selected as the eluent to conduct a soil column washing test of heavy metal-contaminated clay soil. Results show that repeated freeze-thaw of soil can destroy the original structure of soil particles, help the eluent fully interact with pollutants, and thus improve washing efficiency. Cd was showed the best removal effect after supplying 0.1 mol/L EDTA twice and deionized water thrice by freeze-thaw and washing, and the removal rate reached 88.07%. Pb was also showed the better removal effect after three times of 0.1 mol/L EDTA and four times of deionized water through freeze-thaw and washing, and the removal rate reached 37.78%. Combined freeze-thaw and chemical washing can effectively remove the reducible and residual fractions of Cd and Pb in the clay soils. Moreover, freeze-thaw synergistic chemical washing can remove Cd and Pb at low liquid/soil ratios. The conclusions obtained in the study are of important theoretical value and technical support for the similar engineering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In modern industry, selective extraction and recovery of Cu from strongly acidic electroplating effluent are crucial to reduce carbon emissions, alleviate resource scarcity, and mitigate water pollution, yielding considerable economic and environmental benefits. This study proposed a high-efficiency CuSe electrode to selectively remove Cu from electroplating effluent via hybrid capacitive deionization (HCDI). The potential of this electrode was thoroughly evaluated to assess its effectiveness. The CuSe electrode exhibited superior deionization performance in terms of Cu adsorption capacity, selectivity, and applicability in various water matrices. Specifically, under strong acid conditions (1 M H+), the CuSe electrode maintained an optimal adsorption capacity of 357.36 mg g−1 toward Cu2+. In systems containing salt ions, heavy metals, and actual electroplating wastewater, the CuSe electrode achieved a remarkable removal efficiency of up to 90% for Cu2+ with a high distribution coefficient K d. Notably, the capacitive deionization (CDI) system demonstrated the simultaneous removal of Cu-EDTA. The removal mechanism was further revealed using ex-situ X-ray diffraction and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analyses. Overall, this study presents a practical approach that extends the capabilities of CDI platforms for effectively removing and recovering Cu from acidic electroplating effluent. [Display omitted] • CuSe materials were prepared by a facile hydrothermal method. • CuSe electrodes were used for the first time in the field of CDI. • CuSe exhibited a higher adsorption capacity and excellent selectivity toward Cu2+. • The practical potential for application in real water matrices has been verified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Selective capture of radioactive 99TcO 4 - from highly alkaline nuclear waste is highly desirable for environmental remediation and waste disposal. However, the combined features of adsorbents with excellent chemical stability and high capture selectivity for 99TcO 4 - have not yet been achieved. Herein, we report an ultra-stable 3D pyridinium salt-based polymeric network (TMP-TBPM) nanotrap with remarkable radiation, acid and base stability for selective capture of ReO 4 - via hydrophobic engineering and steric hindrance, a non-radioactive surrogate of 99TcO 4 -. The batch capture experiments show that TMP-TBPM has high capture capacity (918.7 mg g−1) and fast sorption kinetics (94.3 % removal in 2 min), which can be attributed to the high density of pyridinium salt-based units on the highly accessible pore channels of 3D interconnected low-density skeleton. In addition, the introduction of abundant alkyl and tetraphenylmethane units into the 3D framework not only greatly enhanced the hydrophobicity and stability of TMP-TBPM, but also significantly improved the affinity toward 99TcO 4 -/ReO 4 -, enabling reversible and selective capture of 99TcO 4 -/ReO 4 - even under highly alkaline conditions. This study exhibits the great potential of 3D pyridinium salt-based polymeric network nanotrap for 99TcO 4 -/ReO 4 - capture from highly alkaline nuclear waste, providing a new strategy to construct high-performance cationic polymeric sorbents for radioactive wastewater treatment. [Display omitted] • Robust 3D pyridinium salt-based polymeric network for selective capture of ReO 4 −. • The first example of 3D pyridinium salt-based polymeric network for ReO 4 - capture. • TMP-TBPM has excellent capture performance and high selectivity for 99TcO 4 -/ReO 4 -. • TMP-TBPM can selectively and reversibly capture 99TcO 4 -/ReO 4 - under alkaline conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present work, a novel, floral-like, magnetic sodalite microsphere (SODM) was synthesized in situ by using fly ash (FA) and metakaolin (MK) as raw materials and was used to remove Cd(II) from water. Its magnetism can solve the problems of adsorbent recovery and possible secondary pollution. During the static adsorption, SODM shows a maximum adsorption capacity of 245.17 mg/g. The adsorption of Cd(II) on the SODM surface is spontaneous, exothermic, and physicochemical adsorption, which was evaluated by thermodynamics, kinetics, and isotherm studies. During dynamic adsorption, SODM shows a maximum adsorption capacity of 342.74 mg/g in the simulated solution prepared by the deionized water, compared to 215.88 mg/g in the simulated solution prepared using Xiangsi Lake water from Guangxi Minzu University. At 0.5 g SODM dosage in the dynamic adsorption, the adsorption capacity could rise to 632.81 mg/g. These results demonstrated the excellent Cd (II) adsorption performance of the SODM. The adsorption of cadmium on the SODM surface includes the synergistic effects of electrostatic attraction, ion exchange, and surface coordination reaction. Besides, the SODM shows good regeneration performance in both the deionized water and Xiangsi Lake water. The present study explores SODM as an adsorbent for the Cd (II) removal from wastewater and unbolts the industrial applicability of the SODM in the field of wastewater purification. [Display omitted] • The sodalite zeolite synthesized in situ by adjusting the content ratio of fly ash to metakaolin. • The SODM which contained low-cost raw materials exhibits magnetism and a flower-like morphology. • The adsorption capacities were 245.17 and 342.72～632.81 mg/g in the static, dynamic adsorption respectively. • The adsorption mechanisms included ion exchange, electrostatic interaction and surface coordination. • After 5 cycles, SODM has good regeneration performance in both lake water and deionized water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bottom ashes generated from municipal solid waste incineration have gained increasing popularity as alternative construction materials, however, they contains elevated heavy metals posing a challenge for its free usage. Different leaching methods are developed to quantify leaching potential of incineration bottom ashes meanwhile guide its environmentally friendly application. Yet, there are diverse IBA applications while the in situ environment is always complicated, challenging its legislation. In this study, leaching tests were conveyed using batch and column leaching methods with seawater as opposed to deionized water, to unveil the metal leaching potential of IBA subjected to salty environment, which is commonly encountered when using IBA in land reclamation yet not well understood. Statistical analysis for different leaching methods suggested disparate performance between seawater and deionized water primarily ascribed to ionic strength. Impacts of leachant are metal-specific dependent on leaching methods and have a function of intrinsic characteristics of incineration bottom ashes. Leaching performances were further compared on additional perspectives, e.g. leaching approach and liquid to solid ratio, indicating sophisticated leaching potentials dominated by combined geochemistry. It is necessary to develop application-oriented leaching methods with corresponding leaching criteria to preclude discriminations between different applications, e.g. , terrestrial applications vs . land reclamation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Capacitive deionization (CDI) is surprisingly efficient to remove the aqueous Cs ion due to its small hydrated size and low hydration energy. But current experimental techniques fail in investigating deeply into the influence of some key electrode characteristics due to the difficulty in experimentally fabricating the electrodes as desired. This work presents a dynamic transport model of salt ions in a flow-by CDI cell. By using this model, the electrode thickness, macro- and micro-porosity are investigated to evaluate Cs ion removal efficiency and energy efficiency particularly from the aspect of ion transfer by the approach of decomposing energy contribution. The results indicate that the thick electrode coupled with the high current could greatly improve the effluent quality, but reduce the salt adsorption capacity (SAC). The increasement of the current density from 3 A/m2 to 6 A/m2 greatly decreases the SAC from 4.0 mg/g to 0.8 mg/g. Lower current could prolong the charging period, leading to more ions stored in the micropore. Not all the electrical energy is consumed for separating ions from the feed as desired, but some are used for driving ions diffusing in the electrodes. Consequently charging efficiency will be reduced especially when the electrodes are characterized with high porosity. It is highlighted that future work is required to further consider the complex details of porous structure and pore connectivity. [Display omitted] Radioactive cesium as the product of uranium fission in the energy industry usually exit in ionic form and could be easily dissolved in water, releasing high levels of beta as well as gamma particles and leading to cell damage. Surprisingly capacitive deionization (CDI) is efficient to remove the aqueous Cs ion due to its small hydrated size and low hydration energy. This work deeply elucidates the mechanism of Cs removal by the CDI technique from the aspect of ion transfer and energy contribution composition such as to provide theoretical guidelines for tailoring the electrode structure and tuning the operating parameters. • A CDI dynamic model was presented. • Mechanism was explained by ion transfer. • Energy was decomposed based on ion transport. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Technetium-99m (99mTc) is an important medical radionuclide. Due to the crisis in supply of molybdenum-99 (99Mo), production of 99mTc directly via the 100Mo (p, 2 n) reaction by cyclotron was proposed. In this process, the most critical challenge is to rapidly and efficiently separate 99mTc from high concentration of molybdenum. In this work, a novel ligand, bis(N,N -dibutyldiglycolamide)dibenzo-18-crown-6 (BisDBDGA-DB18C6) was successfully synthesized and used for extraction of TcO 4 - /ReO 4 - from molybdenum. The results demonstrated that BisDBDGA-DB18C6 expressed excellent selectivity for TcO 4 - with a high separation factor of 1.6 × 105 against Mo, a fast extraction kinetic (within 45 s), and a high extraction capacity of 211 mmol ReO 4 - (99TcO 4 -)/per mole of extractant. The extraction mechanism was proposed as a co-interaction of macrocyclic crown ether and N,N -dibutyldiglycolamide group through slope analysis, FT-IR, ESI-MS, 1H NMR titration and theory calculations. Importantly, 99Tc in the organic phase can be quantitatively (> 99%) and easily back-extracted using deionized water, which can be directly used for medical applications. [Display omitted] • A novel ligand BisDBDGA-DB18C6 was first prepared. • The tailored BisDBDGA-DB18C6 exhibits ultrafast extraction kinetic (within 45 s). • Superior extraction performance toward Tc/Re over Mo is confirmed and evaluated. • The solution is stripped with deionized water for direct medical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cadmium pollution is a serious threat for the global drink water and natural environment. Herein, a poly-pyrrole coated dual-metal perovskite-type oxide FeMnO 3 (PFMO@PPy) was developed firstly as pseudocapacitive cathode for the reversible capture and release of cadmium ions by asymmetry pseudocapacitive deionization (APCDI) technology, extending the library of CDI electrodes. Our work highlighted several points: (i) PFMO@PPy achieved a maximum Cd-removal capacity of 144.6 mg g−1, and maintained the retention rate of 93.4% after 15-cycle CDI process for up to 150 h, far beyond other previous work. (ii) PFMO@PPy showed the superior removal ratio (~90%) under different real water environments such as tap water, lake water and the groundwater. (iii) The superior Cd(II) electrosorption and desorption behavior is ascribed to the reversible synergistic valence conversion (Fe3+/Fe0 and Mn3+/Mn2+), which is confirmed by ex-situ XPS measurement and electrochemical tests. (iv) DFT calculations confirmed the synergistic effect from Mn and Fe elements in perovskite-type bimetallic oxide FeMnO 3. This study paves a new way for promising future applications of perovskite-type oxides containing dual Faradic redox-activity for wastewater treatment and environmental remediation. [Display omitted] • PFMO@PPy was studied firstly in CDI field and achieved a maximum Cd-removal capacity of 144.6 mg g−1. • PFMO@PPy maintained the retention rate of 93.4% after 15-cycle CDI process for up to 150 h. • PFMO@PPy obtained superior Cd-removal ratio (~90%) in tap water, lake water and groundwater. • Cd(II) adsorption behavior is ascribed to synergistic valence conversion (Fe3+/Fe0 and Mn3+/Mn2+). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The feasibility of the electro-removal of arsenate (As(V)) and arsenite (As(III)) from aqueous solutions via capacitive deionization was investigated. The effects of applied voltage (0.0–1.2 V) and initial concentration (0.1–200 mg L −1 ) on arsenic removal were examined. As evidenced, an enhancement of arsenic removal can be achieved by capacitive deionization. The capacity to remove As(V) at an initial concentration of 0.2 mg L −1 on the activated carbon electrode at 1.2 V was determined to be 2.47 × 10 −2 mg g −1 , which is 1.8-fold higher than that of As(III) (1.37 × 10 −2 mg g −1 ). Notably, the possible transformation of arsenic species was further characterized. The higher effectiveness of As(V) removal via electrosorption at 1.2 V was attributed to the formation of an electrical double layer at the electrode/solution interface. The removal of As(III) could be achieved by the oxidation of As(III) to As(V) and subsequent electrosorption of the As(V) onto the electrode surface of the anode. The presence of sodium chloride or natural organic matter was found to considerably decrease arsenic removal. Single-pass electrosorption-desorption experiments conducted at 1.2 V further demonstrated that capacitive deionization is a potential means of effectively removing arsenic from aqueous solutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study presents the viability and preference of capacitive deionization (CDI) for removing different heavy metal ions in various conditions. The removal performance and mechanisms of three ions, cadmium (Cd 2+ ), lead (Pb 2+ ) and chromium (Cr 3+ ) were investigated individually and as a mixture under different applied voltages and ion concentrations. It was found that CDI could effectively remove these metals, and the performance was positively correlated with the applied voltage. When 1.2 V was applied into solution containing 0.5 mM individual ions, the Cd 2+ , Pb 2+ , and Cr 3+ removal was 32%, 43%, and 52%, respectively, and the electrosorption played a bigger role in Cd 2+ removal than for the other two ions. Interestingly, while the removal of Pb 2+ and Cr 3+ remained at a similar level of 46% in the mixture of three ions, the Cd 2+ removal significantly decreased to 14%. Similar patterns were observed when 0.05 mM was used to simulate natural contaminated water condition, but the removal efficiencies were much higher, with the removal of Pb 2+ , Cr 3+ , and Cd 2+ increased to 81%, 78%, and 42%, respectively. The low valence charge and lack of physical sorption of Cd 2+ were believed to be the reason for the removal behavior, and advanced microscopic analysis showed clear deposits of metal ions on the cathode surface after operation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The presence of 1,4-dioxane in various water streams poses a threat to the health of human beings. In this study, the oxidative combination of ozone with peroxymonosulfate (PMS) was for the first time used to remove 1,4-dioxane from water. Near complete abatement of 1,4-dioxane was achieved by ozone-PMS after reaction of only 15 min and the degradation kinetics was found to be positively correlated with doses of PMS and ozone. Ozone-PMS oxidation had the optimum performance at slight base pH values. Both sulfate radicals and hydroxyl radicals were generated in ozone-PMS oxidation and these radicals resulted in the degradation of 1,4-dioxane. The effects of common water constituents and real water matrices were investigated. It was found that bicarbonate ions with a concentration up to 10 mM had a slight promoting effect, while either chloride ions or natural organic matter inhibited only slightly the degradation. Meanwhile, no obvious difference in the degradation of 1,4-dioxane was found among the real water matrices and deionized water, which demonstrates that ozone-PMS oxidation has high tolerance and stability. The results from this study demonstrate that ozone-PMS may be a promising technology for the removal of 1,4-dioxane from various water matrices. [Display omitted] • The activation of ozone by PMS mainly contributed to the degradation. • Both sulfate radicals and hydroxyl radicals were involved during the degradation. • Limited water matrices effects were observed on ozone-PMS oxidation. • Ozone-PMS oxidation showed high tolerance in the removal of 1,4-dioxane. • Two pathways were proposed for the degradation of 1,4-dioxane. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

90Sr-containing radioactive wastewater during Fukushima nuclear accident (FNA) aroused extensive consideration for its disposal. Massive coexisted Na+ ions seriously inhibited Sr2+ removal, aggravating the expenditure of radioactive wastewater treatment. Herein, a chestnut shell derived porous carbon material modified with aryl diazonium salt (ADS) of sodium 4-aminoazobenzene-4′-sulfonate (SPAC) was developed as capacitive deionization electrode for selective removal of Sr2+ from saliferous radioactive wastewater. Based on ADS modification, the Sr2+ electrosorption capacity of SPAC electrode was improved to 33.11 mg g−1 with fast ion removal rate of 2.89 mg g−1 min−1, comparing with only 16.10 mg g−1 before modification. The isothermal adsorption and kinetics by SPAC electrode fitted well with Langmuir and pseudo-second-order model, achieving a maximum Sr2+ electrosorption capacity of 58.21 mg g−1, superior cycling stability, and excellent charge efficiency (77.63%). Fascinatingly, the SPAC electrode exhibited superhigh Sr2+ selectivity of 70.65 against Na+ in Na+–Sr2+ mixed solution with molar ratio of Na+:Sr2+ as 20:1. Density functional theory (DFT) simulation, combining with electrochemical and spectral analyses, revealed that the high overlap of electron cloud between Sr2+ ion and anionic sulfonic group (–SO 3 -) provided SPAC with remarkable selectivity of Sr2+ ion, and illustrated the ion-swapping mechanism of Sr2+ selectivity. [Display omitted] • SPAC electrode exhibited Sr2+ selectivity of 70.65 against Na+ in molar ratio of Na+:Sr2+ as 20:1. • A maximum Sr2+ electrosorption capacity of 58.21 mg g−1 was achieved in certain condition. • High overlap of electron cloud between Sr2+ ion and –SO 3 - group provided Sr2+ selectivity of SPAC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Olive mill wastewater (OMWW) is an environmentally critical effluent, specifically due to its high content of phenolic compounds (PCs), which are hazardous due to their antimicrobial activities in water. However, their properties have good health effects at suitable doses. For the first time, the electrosorption of PCs from actual OMWW has been proposed for their possible recovery as value-added compounds, while decontaminating OMWW. A bio-sourced alginate-activated carbon (AC) fixed-bed electrode was prepared based on the reuse of olive pomace solid waste as powdered AC. At the optimal AC content (1% w/v), the internal ohmic drop voltage was lower (2.26 V) and the mass transport coefficient was higher (9.7 10−5 m s−1) along with the diffusivity (7.3 10−9 m2 s−1), which led to enhanced electrosorption rates. Afterward, an optimal electrode potential was obtained (−1.1 V vs. Ag/AgCl), while higher voltages led to faradaic reactions. Moreover, the adsorption capacity was lower (123 mg g−1) than that of electrosorption (170 mg g−1) and was even higher (307 mg g−1) with actual effluents. This was probably due to the influence of electromigration, which was confirmed by new models that could predict the electrosorption kinetics well considering mass transport and acid dissociation constants. [Display omitted] • Electrosorption of phenolic compounds with real olive mill effluents for the first time. • New model of phenol electrosorption kinetics including transport in transient regime. • Electro-migration was added to diffusion in electrosorption model of real effluent. • Mass transport was correlated with the activated carbon content in alginate beads. • Electrosorption occurred mainly within the beads and not at the electrode interface. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Iron-cobalt layered double hydroxides (FeCoLDH) showed superior oxygen evolution reaction (OER) performance, but the sluggish water adsorption and dissociation dynamics restrict its capacity to degrade organic pollutants by electro-oxidation. Herein, enhanced electro-oxidation performance of FeCoLDH with hydrophilic structure was designed and exhibited efficient removal efficiency of tetracycline. Theoretical calculation and characterization results consistently elucidated that the electronic structure of FeCoLDH is optimized by doping phosphorus and depositing copper nanodots (NDs). In addition, the obtained Cu NDs/P-FeCoLDH shows higher degradation ability of tetracycline in all-pH conditions than pristine FeCoLDH. That's because it owns smaller barrier with 0.6 eV to generate hydroxyl radicals (•OH) than pristine FeCoLDH. Furthermore, it can effectively degrade organic pollutants in seawater, river water and pharmaceutical wastewater samples. This work provides novel and rational electrode materials for electro-oxidation system with practical application potential, which could offer new insights into the fundamental understanding of electrochemistry. [Display omitted] • Cu NDs/P-FeCoLDHanode exhibits superior degradation efficiency of TC in all-pH conditions • P doping optimizedtheadsorption energies of hydrogen • Cu NDs deposition accelerateddissociation ofwater molecules • Reasonable mechanismfor the enhanced electrooxidation activity was well explained [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) and their host antibiotic-resistant bacteria (ARB) are widely detected in the environment and pose a threat to human health. Traditional disinfection in water treatment plants cannot effectively remove ARGs and ARB. This study explored the potential of a heterogeneous photo-Fenton-like process utilizing a hierarchical macro-mesoporous Co 3 O 4 -SiO 2 (MM CS) catalyst for activation of peroxymonosulfate (PMS) to inactivate ARB and degrade the intracellular ARGs. A typical gram-negative antibiotic-resistant bacteria called Pseudomonas sp. HLS-6 was used as a model ARB. A completed inactivation of ARB at ∼107 CFU/mL was achieved in 30 s, and an efficient removal rate of more than 4.0 log for specific ARGs (sul1 and intI1) was achieved within 60 min by the MM CS-based heterogeneous photo-Fenton-like process under visible light and neutral pH conditions. Mechanism investigation revealed that •O 2 − and 1O 2 were the vital reactive species for ARB inactivation and ARG degradation. The formation and transformation of the active species were proposed. Furthermore, the hierarchical macro-mesoporous structure of MM CS provided excellent optical and photoelectrochemical properties that promoted the cycle of Co3+/Co2+ and the effective utilization of PMS. This process was validated to be effective in various water matrices, including deionized water, underground water, source water, and secondary effluent wastewater. Collectively, this work demonstrated that the MM CS-based heterogeneous photo-Fenton-like process is a promising technology for controlling the spread of antibiotic resistance in aquatic environments. [Display omitted] ● The ARB (HLS-6) can be inactivated in 30 s by MM CS/PMS photo-Fenton-like system. ● The related ARGs (sul1 and intI1) can be completely damaged in 30 min ● Hierarchical pores and visible light accelerated the reduction of Co3+ to Co2+. ● •O 2 − and 1O 2 were the vital reactive species for ARB inactivation and ARG removal. ● This MM CS/PMS photo-Fenton-like process was effective in various water matrices [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was performed to determine the feasibility of electrosorptive removal of copper ions from aqueous solutions using a capacitive deionization process. The electrosorptive potential of copper ions was determined using cyclic voltammetry measurements, and copper electrodeposition could be suppressed at a voltage less than 0.8 V. Importantly, the experimental results demonstrated a significant enhancement of electrosorption capability of copper ions using the activated carbon electrodes under electro-assistance, associated with electrical double-layer charging. At 0.8 V, the equilibrium electrosorption capacity was enhanced to 24.57 mg/g based on the Langmuir model, and the electrosorption constant rate was increased to 0.038 min-1 simulated by a first-order kinetics model. Moreover, the activated carbon electrode showed great regeneration performance for the removal of low level copper ions. Additional experiments regarding electrosorption selectivity were performed in the presence of sodium chloride, natural organic matter, or dissolved silica. Copper ions that were preferentially electroadsorbed on the electrode surface can be effectively removed in a competitive environment. Therefore, the electrosorption process using activated carbon electrodes can be recommended to treat copper solutions at low concentrations for wastewater treatment and water purification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As(III) removal from groundwaters is challenging because of its neutral charge and low surface affinity under circumneutral pH conditions. In this work, we investigate the influence of Ca2+ and Mg2+ on the removal of As(III) by a redox active polyvinylferrocene (PVF) functionalized electrode in a modified double potential step chronoamperometry (DPSC) setup. In the absence of divalent cations, nearly 90% As(III) removal is achieved over ten continuous cycles by single-pass DPSC, even in the presence of competing anions, however the presence of divalent cations at concentrations ≥ 1.25 mM significantly inhibits As(III) removal. The divalent cations enhance arsenic removal in the first (removal) step but suppress electrode regeneration in the 2nd step. Our results suggest that Ca2+/Mg2+ either acts as a bridge between the electrode surface and As anions or the sorption of Ca2+/Mg2+ increases the positive charge on the electrode surface thereby facilitating As(V) sorption. We show that effective electrode regeneration can be achieved using an NaOH wash however the overall complexity of the process increases. Overall, we conclude that the influence of divalent cations on As removal by electro-sorption processes needs to be taken into consideration for application of this technology for real groundwater treatment. [Display omitted] • Double Potential Step Chronoamperometry (DPSC) effectively removes As from solution. • Divalent cations Ca2+ and Mg2+ seriously inhibit As removal by DPSC. • Cations enhance As removal in 1st step but limit electrode regeneration in 2nd step. • Ca2+ and Mg2+ act as bridge between As and the polyvinylferrocene electrode. • Effective electrode regeneration can be achieved using an NaOH wash. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

MXenes are a new type of two-dimensional (2D) material which are rapidly gaining traction for a range of environmental, chemical and medical applications. MXenes and MXene-composites exhibit high surface area, superlative chemical stability, thermal conductivity, hydrophilicity and are environmentally compatible. Consequently, MXenes have been successfully employed for hydrogen storage, semiconductor manufacture and lithium ion batteries. In recent years, MXenes have been utilized in numerous environmental applications for treating contaminated surface waters, ground and industrial/ municipal wastewaters and for desalination, often outperforming conventional materials in each field. MXene-composites can adsorb multiple organic and inorganic contaminants, and undergo Faradaic capacitive deionization (CDI) when utilized for electrochemical applications. This approach allows for a significant decrease in the energy demand by overcoming the concentration polarization limitation of conventional CDI electrodes, offering a solution for low-energy desalination of brackish waters. This article presents a state-of-the-art review on water treatment and desalination applications of MXenes and MXene-composites. An investigation into the kinetics and isotherms is presented, as well as the impact of water constituents and operating conditions are also discussed. The applications of MXenes for CDI, pervaporation desalination and solar thermal desalination are also examined based on the reviewed literature. The effects of the water composition and operational protocols on the regeneration efficacy and long-term usage are also highlighted. [Display omitted] • MXenes can be used for drinking / wastewater treatment and desalination applications. • Electrostatic and chemical interactions play a key role in adsorption via MXenes. • CDI electrodes with MXenes offer exceptionally high salt adsorption capacity. • MXenes also show intriguing results for pervaporation and solar desalination. • Assessment of the toxicity of MXenes is warranted before their widespread use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: In this work, fouling, scaling and cleaning of the capacitive deionisation (CDI) with activated carbon electrodes were systematically investigated for the first time. Electrode fouling caused by dissolved organic matter using sodium salt of humic acid as a model foulant (measured by total organic carbon concentration, TOC) and inorganic salt (NaCl, MgCl2, CaCl2 and FeCl3) in the CDI feed solutions was investigated in a series of controlled fouling experiments. After each CDI experiment, a series of cleaning steps was performed to understand the reversibility of fouling accumulated on the electrode surface by analysing the cleaning solutions. The higher the TOC concentration in the CDI feed solution, the more the reduction of salt removal efficiency, declination in the production rate and energy consumption. Dissolved organic matter is the main cause of electrode fouling, as it blocks the activated carbon pores and reduces their electrosorption capacitance. Ca and Mg have no noticeable effect on the CDI treatment performance. However, Fe seemed to have a greater effect on CDI electrode fouling. Alkaline and acid cleaning solutions were able to restore the recovery of the CDI performance from fouling. Pre-treatment to reduce the dissolved organic matter levels is recommended to achieve sustainable treatment performance. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Capacitive deionisation (CDI) has many advantages over other desalination technologies due to its low energy consumption, less environmental pollution and low fouling potential. The objectives of this study are to investigate the effect of operational conditions on the CDI electrosorption efficiency and energy consumption, to identify ion selectivity in multi-ionic solutions and to probe the effect of dissolved reactive silica on the treatment efficiency. A series of laboratory scale experiments were conducted using a CDI unit with activated carbon electrodes. The electrosorption removal efficiency was inversely related to solution temperature, initial total dissolved salts (TDS) concentration and the applied flow rate. CDI energy consumption (kWh/m3) is directly related to the TDS concentration and inversely related to the flow rate. The kinetics analysis indicated that the electrosorption followed pseudo-first-order kinetics model. Ion selectivity on activated carbon electrodes followed the order of Fe3+ >Ca2+ >Mg2+ >Na+ for cations and SO4 2− >Br− >Cl− >F− >NO3 − for anions. It was found that the dissolved silica was not removed by CDI; no silica fouling was found. The deterioration of activated carbon electrodes was not observed at any time during experiment. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Detailed adsorption experiments of Cd from aqueous solution on NiO were conducted under batch process with different concentrations of Cd, time and temperature of the suspension. The solution pH is found to play a decisive role in the metal ions precipitation, surface dissolution and adsorption of metal ions onto the NiO. Preliminary adsorption experiments show that the selectivity of NiO towards different divalent metal ions follows the trend Pb>Zn>Co>Cd, which is related to their first hydrolysis equilibrium constant. The exchange between the proton from the NiO surface and the metal from solution is responsible for the adsorption. The cation/exchange mechanism essentially remains the same for Pb, Zn, Co and Cd ions. The sorption of Cd on NiO particles is described by the modified Langmuir adsorption isotherms. The isosteric heat of adsorption (ΔH) indicates the endothermic nature of the cation exchange process. Spectroscopic analyses provide evidence that Cd is chemisorbed onto the surface of NiO. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: This paper reports the optimization of the process parameters for recovery of zinc from hot galvanizing slag in an anion-exchange membrane electrolysis reactor. The experiments were carried out in an ammoniacal ammonium chloride system. The influence of composition of electrolytes, pH, stirring rate, current density and temperature, on cathodic current efficiency, specific power consumption and anodic dissolution of Zn were investigated. The results indicate that the cathode current efficiency increases and the hydrogen evolution decreased with increasing the cathode current density. The partial current for electrodeposition of Zn has liner relationship with ω 1/2 (ω: rotation rate). The highest current efficiency for dissolving zinc was obtained when NH4Cl concentration was 53.46gL−1 and the anodic dissolution of zinc was determined by mass transfer rate at stirring rate 0–300rmin−1. Increase in temperature benefits to improve CE and dissolution of Zn, and reduce cell voltage. Initial pH of electrolytes plays an important role in the deposition and anodic dissolution of Zn. The results of single factor experiment show that about 50% energy consumption was saved for electrodeposition of Zn in the anion-exchange membrane electrolysis reactor. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: 2,4-Dinitrophenylhydrazine (DNPH) immobilized on sodium dodecyl sulfate coated nano-alumina was developed for the removal of metal cations Pb(II), Cd(II), Cr(III), Co(II), Ni(II) and Mn(II) from water samples. The research results displayed that adsorbent has the highest adsorption capacity for Pb(II), Cr(III) and Cd(II) in ions mixture system. Optimal experimental conditions including pH, adsorbent dosage and contact time have been established. Langmuir and Freundlich isotherm models were applied to analyze the experimental data. The best interpretation for the experimental data was given by the Freundlich adsorption isotherm equation for Mn(II), Pb(II), Cr(III) and Cd(II) ions and by Langmuir isotherm equation for Ni(II) and Co(II) ions. Desorption experiments by elution of the adsorbent with a mixture of nitric acid and methanol show that the modified alumina nanoparticles could be reused without significant losses of its initial properties even after three adsorption–desorption cycles. Thus, modified nano-alumina with DNPH is favorable and useful for the removal of these metal ions, and the high adsorption capacity makes it a good promising candidate material for Pb(II),Cr(III) and Cd(II) removal. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: In this work the natural and the surfactant modified diatomite has been tested for ability to remove uranium ions from aqueous solutions. Such controlling factors of the adsorption process as initial uranium concentration, pH, contact time and ionic strength have been investigated. Effect of ionic strength of solution has been examined using the solutions of NaCl, Na2CO3 and K2SO4. The pseudo-first order and the pseudo-second order models have been used to analyze the adsorption kinetic results, whereas the Langmuir and the Freundlich isotherms have been used to the equilibrium adsorption data. The effects of the adsorbent modification as well as uranium adsorption on the diatomite surface have been studied using X-ray powder diffraction, scanning electron microscopy and FTIR spectroscopy. The maximum adsorption capacities of the natural and the modified diatomite towards uranium were 25.63μmol/g and 667.40μmol/g, respectively. The desorptive solutions of HCl, NaOH, Na2CO3, K2SO4, CaCO3, humic acid, cool and hot water have been tested to recover uranium from the adsorbent. The highest values of uranium desorption (86%) have been reached using 0.1M HCl. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Adsorption of uranium (VI) on a natural clinoptilolite zeolite from Sweetwater County, Wyoming was investigated. Batch experiments were conducted to study the effects of pH and initial feed concentrations on uranium removal efficiency. It was found that the clinoptilolite can neutralize both acidic and low basic water solutions through its alkalinity and ion-exchange reactions with U within the solution, and adsorption of uranium (VI) species on clinoptilolite not only depends on the pH but also the initial feed concentration. The highest uranium removal efficiency (95.6%) was obtained at initial uranium concentration of 5mg/L and pH 6.0. The Langmuir adsorption isotherm model correlates well with the uranium adsorption equilibrium data for the concentration range of 0.1–500mg/L. From the experimental data obtained in this work, it was found that the zeolite sample investigated in this work is a mixture of clinoptilolite-Na zeolite and mineral impurities with a relatively large specific surface area (BET of 18m2/g) and promising adsorption properties for uranium removal from contaminated water. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A carbonaceous sorbent was prepared from rice husk via sulfuric acid treatment. Sorption of Zn(II) and Hg(II) from aqueous solution was studied varying time, pH, metal concentration, temperature and sorbent status (wet and dry). Zn(II) sorption was found fast reaching equilibrium within ∼2h while Hg(II) sorption was slow reaching equilibrium within ∼120h with better performance for the wet sorbent than for the dry. Kinetics data for both metals were found to follow pseudo-second order model. Sorption rate of both metals was enhanced with temperature rise. Activation energy, E a , for Zn(II) sorption, was ∼13.0kJ/mol indicating a diffusion-controlled process ion exchange process, however, for Hg(II) sorption, E a was ∼54kJ/mol indicating a chemically controlled process. Sorption of both metals was low at low pH and increased with pH increase. Sorption was much higher for Hg(II) than for Zn(II) with higher uptake for both metals by rising the temperature. Hg(II) was reduced to Hg(I) on the sorbent surface. This was confirmed from the identification of Hg2Cl2 deposits on the sorbent surface by scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction. However, no redox processes were observed in Zn(II) sorption. Sorption mechanism is discussed. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Barium borosilicate (BBS) and sodium borosilicate (SBS) glass samples, prepared by the conventional melt-quench method, were used for the uptake of Rhodamine 6G dye from aqueous solution. The experimental conditions were optimized to get maximum uptake and was found to be 0.4mg of dye per gram of BBS glass sample. For the same network former to modifier ratio, barium borosilicate glasses are found to have improved extent of uptake for the dye molecules from aqueous solutions compared to sodium borosilicate glasses. Based on 29Si MAS NMR studies on these glasses, it is inferred that significantly higher number of non-bridging oxygen atoms present in barium borosilicate glasses compared to sodium borosilicate glasses is responsible for its improved uptake of Rhodamine 6G dye. 11B MAS NMR studies have confirmed the simultaneous existence of boron in BO3 and BO4 configurations in both barium borosilicate and sodium borosilicate glasses. The luminescence studies have established that the dye molecule is incorporated into the glass matrix through ion exchange mechanism by replacing the exchangeable ions like Na+/Ba2+ attached with the non-bridging oxygen atoms present in the glass. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The sorption of SPANDS from aqueous solution onto the macroporous polystyrene anion exchangers of weakly basic Amberlyst A-21 and strongly basic Amberlyst A-29 in a batch method was studied. The effect of initial dye concentration and phase contact time was considered to evaluate the sorption capacity of anion exchangers. Equilibrium data were attempted by various adsorption isotherms including the Langmuir, Freundlich and Dubinin–Radushkevich (D–R) models. A comparison of kinetic models applied to the adsorption rate constants and equilibrium sorption capacities was made for the Lagergren first-order, pseudo second-order and Morris–Weber intraparticle diffusion kinetic models. The results showed that the adsorption isotherm is in the good agreement with the Langmuir equation and that the adsorption kinetics of SPADNS on both anion exchangers can be best described by the pseudo second-order model. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Batch adsorption technique was used to study the adsorption of cobalt on NiO. The aim of this work was to examine the effect of pH, concentration and temperature on the ion exchange removal of Co2+ from aqueous solution by the NiO surface. We used Langmuir model to interpret the adsorption data. The Kurbatov-type plots were tested to determine the adsorption mechanism. The kinetics of Co2+ adsorption on NiO was best described by film diffusion model. A well-known thermodynamic equation was used to assess the enthalpy and entropy of the system. The thermodynamic data were indicative of the spontaneous nature of the endothermic sorption process of Co2+ onto the NiO. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: New pyridine strong base anion exchange resin has been prepared by the nucleophilic substitution reaction of 4-vinylpyridine:divinylbenzene copolymer of gel structure with 2-chloroacetamide as halogenated compound. The resulting resin was used to remove Cr(VI) from the aqueous solution. Batch adsorption studies have been carried out to determine the effect of the initial concentration of Cr(VI), adsorbent dose, pH, temperature and the presence of sulfate anions as counter ions. The process was found to be pH, solid/liquid ratio and concentration dependent. The adsorption capacities increase with the increase of the initial concentration of Cr(VI) and therefore, the resin exhibited the degree of usage of the strong base exchange capacities higher than 90% and the good efficiency in the chromium removal. At acidic pH and low concentration of the hexavalent chromium the synthesized pyridine resin offer much greater chromate removal capacities compared to alkaline pH. Equilibrium modeling of the process of Cr(VI) removal was carried out by using the Langmuir and Freundlich isotherms. The experimental data obeyed these isotherm models. Thermodynamic studies were performed and the parameters namely, ΔG°, ΔH° and ΔS° showed the spontaneous and endothermic process of the adsorption of Cr(VI) on the pyridine resin. In the competitive adsorption studies, chromate/sulfate revealed the selectivity of the pyridine adsorbents towards chromium ions. This selectivity is explained by the adsorption of the transition metal anion on the π bonds of the pyridine ring and the formation a sandwich arrangement with chromium anion and amide functional groups attached to the quaternary nitrogen atoms. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: An aminated chelating fiber (AF) with high adsorption capacity for mercury ions was prepared by grafting copolymerization of acrylonitrile onto polypropylene fiber, followed by aminating with chelating molecule diethylenetriamine. Effects of reaction conditions such as temperature, reaction time, bath ratio and dosage of catalyst on the grafting yield were studied. Chemical structure, tensile strength and thermal stability of AF were characterized. The adsorption performances for mercury were evaluated by batch adsorption experiments and kinetic experiments. The results show that AF is effective for the removal of mercury over a wide range of pH. The chelating fiber also shows much higher adsorption capacities for mercury, the equilibrium adsorption amount could be as high as 657.9mg/g for mercury. The high adsorption capacity of Hg2+ on AF is resulted from the strong chelating interaction between amine groups and mercury ions. Two amine groups coordinate with one mercury ion could be speculated from the adsorption capacity and amine group content on AF. The kinetic adsorption results indicate that the adsorption rates of AF for mercury are very rapid. Furthermore, the residual concentration was less than 1μg/L with feed concentration of mercury below 1mg/L, which can meet the criterion of drinking water, which indicates that the chelating fiber prepared in this study could be applied to low-level Hg contaminated drinking water purification. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The displacement of Ca2+, Mg2+, K+ and Al3+ from the A and Bw or Bt horizons of two soils developed over serpentinized amphibolites when equilibrated in Cu2+, Cd2+ or Pb2+ solutions was determined, together with the concomitant sorption of the heavy metal. The contributions of Mg2+ to the effective cation exchange capacities of the A and Bt horizons of the Endoleptic Luvisol were 57% and 94%, respectively, and its contributions to those of the A and Bw horizons of the Mollic Cambisol were 70% and 77%, respectively. In all four horizons, cation exchange, chiefly with Mg2+ and Ca2+, was the process chiefly responsible for sorption of Cd2+, Cu2+ and Pb2+. Al3+ and K+ were hardly implicated, especially in the case of Cd2+. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Kaolinite clay obtained from Ubulu-Ukwu, Delta State in Nigeria was modified with polyvinyl-alcohol (PVA) reagent to obtained PVA-modified Kaolinite clay. Kinetic and equilibrium data were obtained for the batch adsorption of Pb2+ onto PVA-modified Kaolinite clay. Time-dependent Langmuir and pseudo-second order kinetic models (TDLM and PSOM) were developed to predict the optimized minimum operating time for the adsorption of Pb2+ onto PVA-modified Kaolinite clay in a two-stage batch adsorber system. Results obtained suggest that the two-stage batch adsorber process leads to improved contact time and increased percentage Pb2+ removal. Data from both models (TDLM and PSOM) were compared using t-test and F-test and were found to be precise enough for use in the optimization of kinetic data for a two-stage adsorption of Pb2+ ions from aqueous solution. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The layered double hydroxides (LDHs) containing nitrate as the interlayer anion has a high anion-exchange capacity in the presence of appropriate anions. In the light of this, ZnAl-NO3 LDHs have been employed to remove chloride ion from aqueous solution in a batch mode. The influences of conditions for chloride ion uptake, including dosage of LDHs, pH of aqueous solution, and temperature on anion-exchange have been investigated, respectively. The thermodynamic parameters including Gibbs free energy (ΔG 0), standard enthalpy change (ΔH 0), and standard entropy change (ΔS 0) for the process were calculated using the Langmuir constants. It was found from kinetics test that the pseudo-second order kinetics model could be used to well describe the uptake process. An E a value of 10.27kJ/mol provides evidence the anion-exchange process. The explanation of anion-exchange phenomenon has also been supported by X-ray diffraction and FT-IR spectra. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A silver-catalyzed bioleaching process was used to remove heavy metals from contaminated sediment in this study. The effects of silver concentration added on the performance of bioleaching process were investigated. High pH reduction rate was observed in the bioleaching process with silver ion. The silver ion added in the bioleaching process was incorporated into the lattice of the initial sulfide through a cationic interchange reaction. This resulted in the short lag phase and high metal solubilization in the bioleaching process. The maximum pH reduction rate and the ideal metal solubilization were obtained in the presence of 30mg/L of silver ion. When the added silver ion was greater than 30mg/L, the rates of pH reduction and metal solubilization gradually decreased. The solubilization efficiencies of heavy metals (Cu, Zn, Mn, Ni and Cr) were relatively high in the silver-enhanced bioleaching process, except Pb. No apparent effect of silver ion on the growth of sulfur-oxidizing bacteria was found in the bioleaching. These results indicate that the kinetics of metal solubilization can be enhanced by the addition of silver ion. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Arsenite (As(III)) is more toxic and difficult to remove than arsenate (As(V)). In this study, an S-doped Cu-La bimetallic oxide (S-CuLaO) decorated with metal-organic framework (MOF) composite (S-CuLaO@UIO-66) was synthesized and applied for the adsorption of As(III). The maximum adsorption capacity of As(III) by S-CuLaO@UIO-66 was as high as 171 mg/g, which was much higher compared with other MOF compounds reported to date. The UIO-66 support improved the dispersion and reduced the size of the S-CuLaO particles, which increased the number of exposed adsorption reactive sites. Study of the mechanism revealed that the synchronous oxidation and adsorption significantly increased the removal of As(III). O 2 ∙ - was produced by the receiving electron from the dissolved oxygen from Cu(I) in S-CuLaO, which converted As(III) to As(V). Furthermore, the stability and reusability S-CuLaO@UIO-66 (without regeneration) was investigated at a low As(III) concentration (approximately 1000 µg/L) in deionized water and well water. The residual arsenic concentration ranged from 0.8 to 2.8 μg/L in deionized water and 3–58.2 μg/L in well water within 240 min during three cycles. Generally, this study suggests that combining an optimal oxide with a stable MOF is a promising approach for the fabrication of composite adsorbents. [Display omitted] • S-CuLaO@UIO-66 was successfully fabricated via decorating S-CuLaO to MOF (UIO-66). • S-CuLaO@UIO-66 was used for As(III) removal via simultaneous oxidation and adsorption. • O 2 ∙- resulted from the interaction of O 2 with Cu(I) was responsible for the oxidation of As(III). • Maximum adsorption capacity of S-CuLaO@UIO-66 towards As(III) was up to 171 mg/g. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polyimide nanofiber (PINF) aerogel materials have received extensive attention as heat insulation, sensors and filtration media due to their excellent thermodynamic properties and unique porous structure. However, PINF must be difficult to disperse in organic solvents (dioxane or dimethyl sulfoxide) and dimensional instability has been regarded as issues that limits the preparation of PINF aerogels, especially in the water. So, it is of great significance to prepare polyimide aerogels with stable structure using water as a dispersant. In this work, the electrospun polyimide nanofiber precursor (polyamic acid (PAA) nanofiber (PAANF)) is uniformly dispersed in water, and triethylamine is added to terminated PAA oligomer as a binder. The resultant PINF aerogel has excellent mechanical properties with outstanding elasticity and a maximum compressive stress of 7.03 kpa at 50% strain. Furthermore, due to the extremely high porosity (98.4%) and hierarchical porous structure, the aerogel exhibits a high filtration efficiency (99.83%) for PM2.5, while the pressure drop is lower than that of the corresponding nanofiber membrane materials, which will facilitate its application in high temperature filtration and other fields. [Display omitted] • Creative use of deionized water as a dispersant to prepare PINF aerogel. • The preparation of PINF aerogel is only through the simple assembly of nanofibers. • The resultant PINF aerogel has excellent mechanical properties with outstanding elasticity. • The aerogel exhibits a high filtration efficiency (99.83%) of PM2.5 for particle matter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 250-day batch experiment was conducted to examine the generation of microplastic particles from degradation of polycarbonate films in 3 aqueous media of environmental relevance. The microplastic particles generated from the experiment were characterized by SEM/EDS and micro-FTIR analysis. Hydrolysis was responsible for the cleavage of carbon-oxygen bonds in the carbonate group of polycarbonate backbone and detachment of micro-sized plastic particles from the PC film surfaces. The deionized water treatment had the highest concentration of total organic carbon and the greatest number of microplastic particles among the three treatments. Either elevated acidity or the presence of hydroxyl radical did not enhance the hydrolytic degradation of the PC films and generation of microplastic particles though hydroxyl radical caused oxidative degradation of polycarbonate by attacking the organic group but not the carbonate group. Bisphenol A was not detected in any of the treatments. The microplastic particles generated from the current experiment were highly irregular, which may have different physicochemical and toxic behaviours from the spheric synthetic ones that were frequently used in toxicity experiments. [Display omitted] • Experiment to examine weathering of polycarbonate (PC) films in aqueous media. • Elevated acidity or hydroxyl radical did not enhance the degradation of PC films. • Hydrolysis was responsible for generating microplastics with irregular shapes. • Alkanes but not bisphenol A was detected in solutions in contact with the PC films. • Implications for PC degradation under conditions of environmental relevance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The improper disposal in agricultural and industrial wastewater leads to high NO 2 – concentrations in the aquatic environment, which can cause cancer in humans and animals; thus, their quick and accurate detection is urgently needed to ensure public health and environmental safety. In this study, a reliable and selective electrochemical sensor consisting of Pd–Cu nanospheres (NSs) supported on molybdenum carbide was prepared via simple ultrasonication. Then, a glassy carbon electrode was realized using this composite (Pd-Cu-Mo 2 C-modified GCE) to test its electrocatalytic sensing for NO 2 – in a 0.1 M phosphate-buffered solution (PBS) solution via cyclic voltammetry and amperometry; at a low oxidation potential, the anodic peak current of NO 2 – detected by this electrode was significantly higher than that of its unmodified and other modified electrodes. The sensor showed a broad linear response in the 5–165-nM NO 2 – concentration range, with a low detection limit (0.35 nM in 0.1 M PBS) and high sensitivity (3.308 μAnM–1 cm–2). Moreover, the fabricated electrode was successfully applied for detecting nitrites in sausages, river water, and milk, showing also good recovery. ga1 • Facile synthesis of Pd–Cu NSs decorated on Mo 2 C via ultrasonication techniques. • The proposed sensor has a wide linear response and ultralow LOD (0.35 nM) for NO 2 –. • Good stability, repeatability, and antipoisoning capability achieved for NO 2 –. • The modified electrode can detect NO 2 – also in contaminated samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Novel particle electrodes, i.e. flotation tailings particle electrode (FPE), were prepared using flotation tailings, garden soil, and soluble starch with a mass ratio of 16:3:1, and then used in tetracycline wastewater treatment. The physicochemical properties of FPE were systematically characterized using SEM, XRD, FT-IR and XRF. Tetracycline adsorption and its adsorption mechanism onto FPE was explored for the first time. Parameters affecting FPE's degradation efficiency and energy consumption such as current density, electrolysis time, initial concentration, initial pH and aeration rate were examined. The electrocatalytic degradation of tetracycline shows that the degradation of tetracycline meets the pseudo-first-order kinetics. Moreover, the numbers of •OH produced on the surfaces of the cathode, anode and particle electrode were compared. Results showed that the adsorption-saturated FPE can be regenerated by electrochemical action to induce further absorption and form in-situ electrocatalysis. In order to find out the transformation products in water and degradation pathways of Tetracycline, UHPLC method was used to obtain the degradation pathways for Tetracycline. So, this work could provide a fabrication of high-efficiency and low-cost electrocatalytic for removal of pharmaceuticals pollutants from waste water as well as deeper insight into electrocatalytic mechanism, transformation products, and degradation pathways of Tetracycline in water. ga1 • FPE were prepared as novel particle electrodes mainly using the flotation tailings. • TC could be effectively adsorbed by FPE. • Key factors on TC of 3D-AER degradation were evaluated. • Degradation mechanism under 3D-AER with FPE was proposed. • Degradation pathways were speculated with several typical intermediates identified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A process for hazard-free treatment electrolytic manganese residue (EMR) was proposed. • Almost all of the ammonia in the EMR was recovered by low-temperature roasting. • The manganese present in the EMR could be recovered by countercurrent water-washing. • The toxicity leaching results of the EMR after hazard-free treatment met GB 8978−1996. A combined low-temperature-roasting and water-washing process is investigated as a hazard-free method to treat electrolytic manganese residue (EMR) and recover manganese. In this study, the phase transformation characteristics and a thermodynamics analysis of the low temperature roasting process of EMR are evaluated. In addition, the effects of temperature and time on the phase transformation of EMR in the roasting process and the washing characteristics of roasted EMR samples are also investigated. Results reveal that some unstable phases within EMR are transformed into more stable phases depending on the treatment time/temperature conditions used and EMR roasted for 60 min at 600 °C (R 60min/600°C) exhibit the highest rate of manganese recovery, 67.12 %. After 25 min of deionized water washing, the concentration of manganese in solution from R 60min/600°C material become stable, whereas after 6 washing cycles the concentration of manganese in the solution is < 0.005 g/L. The R 60min/600°C material with three wash cycles results in a manganese-water solution concentration that is suitable for use in electrolytic manganese metal production. Finally, toxicity leaching tests show that the concentrations of ions present in the leaching solution are all lower than the regulatory limits mandated by the Chinese Integrated Wastewater Discharge Standard GB 8978−1996. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• CZTS nanoparticles synthesized with solvents of deionized water and ethylene glycol were utilized in catalytic H 2 O 2 process. • CZTS-W exhibited higher recyclability and stability than CZTS-EG. • 1O 2 played the dominant role in SDZ degradation. • The catalytic mechanisms of CZTS-W/H 2 O 2 and CZTS-EG/H 2 O 2 systems were proposed. • The synergetic effect of Cu2+/Cu+ and low-valent sulfur/high-valent sulfur was in favor of H 2 O 2 activation. As a quaternary copper-based semiconductor, Cu 2 ZnSnS 4 (CZTS) is drawing growing attention and is anticipated as a promising photocatalyst, thanks to its large absorption coefficient, exceptional photostability, and theoretical power conversion efficiency. However, CZTS has never been used as an activator of H 2 O 2 for the degradation of refractory organic pollutants. In this study, the synthesis of CZTS nanoparticles obtained with diverse morphologies and crystallinities using solvents of deionized water (CZTS-W) and ethylene glycol (CZTS-EG) was examined in the activation of H 2 O 2 to degrade sulfadiazine (SDZ). The results revealed that CZTS coupled with H 2 O 2 could be an effective system for the degradation of SDZ. Compared to CZTS-EG, CZTS-W presented higher reusability in consecutive cycles with negligible leaching of copper. Reactive oxygen species quenching tests and electron paramagnetic resonance analyses illustrated that •O 2 −, •OH, and 1O 2 contributed to the degradation of SDZ, and 1O 2 prevailed over •O 2 − and •OH. The mechanistic investigation showed that efficient degradation could be associated to the effective recycling of Cu(II)/Cu(I) and low-valent/high-valent sulfur. Also, the degradation pathways of SDZ have been proposed through the detection of intermediate products. This study manifests that CZTS synthesized using deionized water is encouraging for the elimination of organic pollutants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Hg (II) adsorption was compared for modified and unmodified pine-needle biochars. • S-modified pine-needle biochar (BC–S) showed higher Hg (II) adsorption. • Hg (II) removal by BC–S was best described by pseudo-second-order kinetics. • The removal was occurred by complexation with S-containing functional groups. • BC–S resulted in insignificant S leaching to the surrounding aqueous phase. Sulfur-modified pine-needle biochar (BC–S) was produced for the removal of Hg(II) in aqueous media via post-pyrolysis S stream exposure. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, elemental analysis, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy confirmed the addition of S(0) groups on the surface of BC–S. Hg(II) adsorption on BC–S was best described by the Freundlich isotherm with a K F of 21.0 mg L g−1 and a pseudo-second-order adsorption kinetics model with a rate of 0.35 g mg−1 min−1. Hg(II) removal on BC–S was found to be an endothermic process that relied on C-Hg and S-Hg interactions rather than reduction by S(0) groups. The adsorption increased with increasing solution pH and decreased with increasing dissolved organic matter concentration, but was unaffected by increasing salt concentrations. BC–S showed a maximum of 3 % S leaching in aqueous media after 28-d exposure time, and exposure to aqueous media did not convert Hg(II) to elemental Hg. Overall, BC–S exhibited superior Hg(II) removal performance over unmodified BC, thus having potential applications in natural water and wastewater treatment with no significant threat of secondary pollution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]