Chitosan functionalized AgNPs for efficient removal of Imidacloprid pesticide through a pressure-free design

Wide dissemination of pesticides for protecting plants against pests has resulted in high production of un-infected crops but higher environmental pollution. High percentages of pesticides are released to the environment and finally use water as the final destination. The current study is concerning by removal of Imidacloprid pesticide from water using pressure-free passage through polymeric membrane integrated design. Both of chitosan and chitosan functionalized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs @chitosan) membranes were prepared, characterized and applied as adsorbent matrix for Imidacloprid. SEM, TEM and PSA analysis revealed the biosynthesis of AgNPs in the range of 25-50 nm. However, SEM and FTIR analysis revealed the proper formation of chitosan membrane and its proper functionalization with silver nanoparticles. Both of chitosan and AgNPs @chitosan membranes succeeded to remove 40 and 85% of Imidacloprid at slightly acidic pH, respectively. Moreover, the amount of removed Imidacloprid was proportional with the amount of its initial concentration indicating the successful removal of Imidacloprid by AgNPs @chitosan membrane even at higher pesticide concentrations. The obtained results indicate the promising use of AgNPs @chitosan membranes for removal of Imidacloprid pesticide from contaminated water depending on the pressure-free design that lacks external energy support.