Hierarchically structured manganese oxide-coated magnetic nanocomposites for the efficient removal of heavy metal ions from aqueous systems.

In this study, hierarchical MnO2-coated magnetic nanocomposite (Fe3O4/MnO2) was synthesized by a mild hydrothermal process, and its application for removing heavy metal ions from contaminated water systems was examined. Structural characterization showed that the Fe3O4 nanoparticle core was coated with amorphous MnO2 shell with flowerlike morphology. The as-prepared nanocomposite had a large surface area and high magnetic saturation value, which ensured its good sorption ability and convenience of separation. Fe3O4/MnO2 exhibited a greatly improved removal capacity toward four different heavy metals (Cd(II), Cu(II), Pb(II), and Zn(II)) compared to unmodified Fe3O4 nanoparticles. The adsorption property of Fe3O4/MnO2 was studied with Cd(II) in more detail. The sorption equilibrium data were well fitted to the Langmuir model, and the maximum adsorption capacity toward Cd(II) was 53.2 mg g(-1). Fe3O4/MnO2 retained over 80% of its adsorption capacity under various solution conditions that are typically encountered in natural waters. This nanocomposite was easily recovered and reused through consecutive adsorption-desorption experiments with the assistance of an external magnetic field. Overall, the findings propose that Fe3O4/MnO2 could be used as an effective recyclable adsorbent for heavy metal ions.