Application of graphene oxide incorporated into biopolymer microfibers as a novel adsorbent for removing pharmaceuticals from water
摘要
Despite the excellent adsorption capacity of graphene oxide, its extremely small particle size makes it difficult to separate it from an aqueous medium and construct adsorption bed systems. Therefore, the present work aimed to study graphene oxide incorporated into biopolymer microfibers produced by electrospinning and investigate its potential as an adsorbent of antibiotics in contaminated water. The microfibers were electrospun from a polymeric matrix based on poly(butylene succinate) and poly(lactic acid), with the addition of graphene oxide to the synthesis solution. Physical–chemical characterization of the graphene-based composite showed an isoelectric point < 3, a surface area of 8.167 m2 g−1, and a fibrous structure with an average fiber diameter of 1.213 µm. The adsorption experiments were carried out using the antibiotics ciprofloxacin and tetracycline. It was possible to observe that the insertion of graphene oxide in the microfibers promotes a substantial increase in its adsorption capacity. The polymeric composite (with 10% graphene oxide in its composition) exhibited maximum adsorption capacities of 38.45 mg g−1 for ciprofloxacin and 16.10 mg g−1 for tetracycline, predicted by the Sips isotherm model. The adsorbent presented a higher adsorption capacity at acidic pH, and with increasing temperature, indicating the endothermic nature of the process. Due to its adsorption capacity and favorable physical–chemical properties, the composite has been demonstrated to be a promising material for application in pollutant removal via adsorption processes. Thus, this material can contribute to the sustainable development goal of ensuring availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all.