Removal of lead from aqueous solution using polyacrylonitrile/magnetite nanofibers

Lead is known for its toxic and non-biodegradable behavior. The consumption of lead-contaminated water is one of the major threat the world is facing nowadays. In this study, polyacrylonitrile (PAN) and magnetite (Fe₃O₄) composite nanofiber adsorbent was developed for Pb²⁺ removal in batch mode. The synthesis was done by a simple and scalable process of electrospinning followed by chemical precipitation of Fe₃O₄. The nanofibers thus obtained were characterized through FTIR, zeta potential analyzer, and scanning electron microscope (SEM) and were analyzed for their adsorption capability for Pb²⁺ ions. The amount of metal ion adsorbed was influenced by the initial metal ion concentration, the time the adsorbent was in contact, the amount of nanofiber, and the pH of the solution. The experimental data fitted well with pseudo 2nd-order and Langmuir adsorption isotherm model. The nanofibers showed high adsorption capability and could be recommended for Pb²⁺ removal successfully.