Synthesis and characterization of polymer-based hybrid materials via oxidation of Mn(II) using N-chlorosulphonamide polymers

Highlights: ► Copolymer containing -SO2NClNa functional groups is effective oxidant of Mn2+ ions. ► Product of the oxidation reaction – hydrous manganese oxide was precipitated within the polymer matrix. ► Oxidation of Mn(II) by N-chlorosulphonamide polymers leads to polymer-based hybrid materials. - Abstract: Polymer/metal oxide hybrids represent an perspective class of materials with specific properties. Polymer-based hybrid materials containing manganese oxide/hydroxide due to their catalytic, adsorptive and oxidizing properties are the group of materials with large potential applications. Beads of three macroporous and macromolecular oxidants, polystyrene crosslinked by divinylbenzene containing pendant groups: N-chlorosulphonamide in Na+ form, N-chlorosulphonamide in H+ form and N,N-dichlorosulphonamide were used to oxidize Mn(II) to Mn(IV). The investigation were carried out using both the batchwise and column methods, and 0.01 M MnSO4 as well as 0.0025 M MnSO4 solutions were used. We found that the investigated oxidation reaction is favoured by the alkaline medium. The best product in the form of black brilliant beads containing 75 mg Mn g−1 was obtained using polymer supported -SO2NClNa groups. The prepared material was characterized by: FT-IR, EPR and reflectance UV–vis spectra, SEM, X-ray diffraction, porous characteristics, magnetic measurements and thermal analysis. It has been found that hydrous manganese oxide(IV) was well dispersed within the polymer matrix. Amorphous and paramagnetic properties make this new product potentially useful in adsorptive and catalytic processes particularly in oxidative sorption processes.