Graphene-Fibers Hybrid Structures as Adsorbents for Heavy Metal Ions in Aqueous Solutions

Author

Dulce C. Capitanachi, The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley

Date of Award

12-2019

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Mechanical Engineering

First Advisor

Dr. Karen Lozano

Second Advisor

Dr. Rogelio Benitez

Third Advisor

Dr. M. Jasim Uddin

Abstract

The project focuses on the study of graphene-fiber hybrid structures for adsorption of heavy metal ions in aqueous solutions. Polyvinyl alcohol-based graphene–fiber structures were created using centrifugal spinning and a carbonization process.

Characterization methods of the graphene–fiber hybrid structures (GFHS) include SEM, FTIR, TGA, and EDX. Single-step batch-type adsorption studies were performed to analyze the interaction of Cu (II) and Pb (II) ions onto GFHS surface. Different heavy metal ion concentrations were used, as well as a variation of pH values. Elemental analysis of the adsorbent’s surface after filtration experiments was studied by EDX and spectroscopy to verify the presence of the metal ions on the surface. Spectrometry through AAS was conducted on the liquid phase after adsorption of Pb(II) ions at pH 5, results showed a 53% Pb(II) removal.

Comments

Copyright 2019 Dulce C. Capitanachi. All Rights Reserved.

https://go.openathens.net/redirector/utrgv.edu?url=https://www.proquest.com/dissertations-theses/graphene-fibers-hybrid-structures-as-adsorbents/docview/2370524233/se-2?accountid=7119

Recommended Citation

Capitanachi, Dulce C., "Graphene-Fibers Hybrid Structures as Adsorbents for Heavy Metal Ions in Aqueous Solutions" (2019). Theses and Dissertations. 424.
https://scholarworks.utrgv.edu/etd/424