3D Graphene-Like Carbon Structures from Poly(Acrylic Acid): A Novel Synthetic Route

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Materials Science
• Chemistry

Background:

• Emerging contaminants, like the hormone 17α-ethynylestradiol (EE), pose significant risks to aquatic ecosystems and human health.
• Efficient removal of EE from water is crucial for environmental protection and public safety.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of novel three-dimensional porous carbon structures as adsorbents for EE removal.
• To investigate the relationship between the synthesis parameters (KOH ratio) and the adsorption performance of these carbon materials.

Main Methods:

• Activated carbon materials were synthesized from poly(acrylic acid) (PAAc) using varying KOH ratios.
• Adsorption experiments were conducted using EE solutions to determine adsorption capacities.
• Material characterization involved TGA, XRD, and Raman spectroscopy to assess structural properties.

Main Results:

• The AC3 material, synthesized with a 1:3 PAAc:KOH ratio, exhibited the highest EE adsorption capacity (238 mg g⁻¹).
• Adsorption capacities increased with higher KOH ratios, correlating with larger surface area and pore volume.
• The synthesized adsorbents outperformed commercial activated carbons and single-walled carbon nanotubes in EE removal.

Conclusions:

• Three-dimensional porous carbon structures derived from PAAc are highly effective for removing EE from aqueous solutions.
• Optimizing synthesis parameters, specifically the KOH activation ratio, significantly enhances adsorbent performance.
• These novel materials present a promising, sustainable approach for advanced water purification and environmental remediation.