Magnetic graphene oxide based nano-composites for removal of radionuclides and metals from contaminated solutions

Magnetic graphene oxide based composites of the nano-particle size of <10 nm were synthesized, characterized and used in sorption experiments. The adsorption of Cs(I), Co(II), Ni(II), Cu(II) and Pb(II) to nano-composites was studied in a wide range of initial concentrations and analyzed by Langmuir and Freundlich models. In addition, the effects of pH and coexisting ions on the adsorption of Cs to Prussian blue based composites were investigated. The maximum adsorption capacities of studied elements varied from 29 to 641 mg g⁻¹. The obtained Langmuir and Freundlich constants indicated the dominating physisorption mechanism and favorable adsorption conditions. - Highlights: • Adsorption of Cs, Co, Ni, Cu and Pb to magnetic nano-composites was studied. • Prussian blue based nano-composites can effectively adsorb Cs from seawater. • Results indicated the dominated physical sorption mechanism.