Zero-Valent Iron Nanoparticles (NZVI) Supported by Zeolite Clinoptilolite-Supported for Removal of Cu(II) Ions by Adsorption: A Optimization Study by Response Surface Methodology (RSM)

In this study, nanoscale zero-valent iron supported onto Zeolite Clinoptilolite (NZVI/Zeolite) was synthesized from a facile method as an adsorbent for removing Cu (II) from aqueous solutions. Field Emission Scanning Electron Micrographs (FESEM) showed no aggregation, and dot mapping revealed the uniform dispersion of iron onto the surface of the zeolite. The surface area of synthesized NZVI/Zeolite was obtained at about 132.14 m2/g by BET analysis. Also, the isotherm adsorption of Cu (II) onto NZVI/Zeolite was best fitted with the Temkin isotherm (R2=0.894) and maximum adsorption capacity (qm) of Cu (II) onto NZVI/Zeolite was 61.72 mg/g. The maximum removal of Cu (II) by NZVI/Zeolite was about 99.98% at pH=8, the dosage of adsorbent = 0.1 mg/L, Cu (II) concentration = 60 mg/L, and time = 30 min. The reusability of nanocomposite after five consecutive cycles showed 12.72% reduction in the removal of Cu (II). These results suggest that NZVI/Zeolite has excellent potential for the removal of Cu (II) from aqueous solutions.