Magnetic Nanoparticles as Effective Heavy Ion Adsorbers in Natural Samples

This paper refers to research based on tests completed on the adsorption of heavy metal ions (Pb²⁺, Cu²⁺, Cd²⁺) from selected natural liquid samples such as apple, tomato, and potato juices using surface-functionalized Mn ferrite nanoparticles (Mn_0.2Fe_2.8O₄). To determine the most efficient adsorption conditions of these heavy metals, the nanoparticles' surfaces were modified with five different ligands (phthalic anhydride, succinic anhydride, acetic anhydride, 3-phosphonopropionic acid, and 16-phosphonohexadecanoic acid). To evaluate the success of the adsorption process, the resultant liquid samples were examined for the amount of residuals using the flame atomic absorption spectroscopy method. The Mn ferrite particles selected for these tests were first characterized physicochemically by the following methods: transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, IR spectroscopy, Mössbauer spectroscopy.