A magnetic MIL-125-NH2@chitosan composite as a separable adsorbent for the removal of Cr(VI) from wastewater.

Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) are gradually used since of their huge specific surface area and superior pore structure. However, there are problems such as easy aggregation and difficult separation in water treatment. In this study, we prepared composite microspheres (FMCS-1) by modifying MIL-125-NH 2 with Fe 3 O 4 and chitosan. The structural characterization and performance analysis of the materials showed that the introduction of chitosan effectively prevents the stacking of MOFs. The magnetic test manifested that Fe 3 O 4 solved the problem of the difficult separation of MOFs from water. The removal potential of toxic Cr(VI) was tested by adsorption experiments. The isotherm model indicated that FMCS-1 is a single molecular layer adsorbent with a maximum adsorption capacity of 109.46 mg/g at pH = 2. The adsorption kinetics showed that the adsorption of Cr(VI) by FMCS-1 was chemical adsorption. The acid resistance test demonstrated that FMCS-1 can exist stably in acid solutions. The recycling experiments proved that the adsorbent can be reused and the removal percentage still reaches 50 % after 5 cycles. This work expands the application of MOFs in water treatment and also provides an effective adsorbent for Cr(VI) removal. [Display omitted] • A magnetic MIL-125-NH 2 @chitosan composite was prepared. • Physicochemical properties of FMCS-1 microspheres were evaluated. • FMCS-1 microspheres displayed high efficiency for Cr(VI) removal. • The adsorption mechanism of Cr(VI) by FMCS-1 was investigated. • FMCS-1 can efficiently separate from aqueous solutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]