Removal of Cd(ӀӀ) and phenol using novel cross-linked magnetic EDTA/chitosan/TiO2 nanocomposite

In the present study, a novel cross-linked magnetic EDTA/chitosan/TiO2 (MECT) was prepared as eco-friendly and efficient bioadsorbent for the removal of Cd(II) ions and phenol from aqueous solution. Magnetic chitosan was improved by surface functionalization and cross-linking of it with EDTA and photocatalytic with TiO2. The nanocomposite was characterized by FE-SEM, EDX, FTIR and XRD techniques and Cd(II) ions adsorption and phenol degradation under varied experimental conditions were investigated. Results revealed that MECT nanoparticle with an average diameter of 40 nm had the best performance in adsorption of Cd(II) and degradation of phenol at optimum pH values of 5–6. Moreover, the adsorption kinetics proceeded according to the mechanism of the pseudo-second-order model. The maximum adsorption capacity of Cd(II) obtained from Langmuir model was 209.205 mg g−1 and phenol degradation efficiency was up to 90%. Reusability of MECT was tested and the adsorption and degradation capacities were not affected after five cycles. The paper suggests that the MECT is a promising recyclable nanocomposite for the removal of hazardous pollutants from contaminated water.