Magnetic multi-functional SBA-15 supported silver nanocomposites: Synthesis, characterization and application

A novel magnetic multi-functional nanocomposites, MagS-Ag, is developed via a facile route. The material is composed of dense-silica-film-coated Fe3O4, SBA-15 as supporters, and encapsulated Ag nanoparticles. The synthesis strategy involves Fe3O4 covered with inert silica films through an improved dense liquid silica coating (DLSC) method, and SBA-15 supported silver ammonia precursor, followed by ultrasonic mixing in toluene and thermal reduction in an inert atmosphere. The as-synthesized MagS-Ag was characterized to validate the preferable physical and chemical properties. With these properties, MagS-Ag exhibits outstanding capabilities in catalytic reduction of 4-nitrophenol (4-NP) and capture of elemental mercury (Hg0) from coal-fired flue gas. The spent materials can be easily separated/collected by a magnetic field, and regenerated after five application cycles without any considerable performance deterioration. Overall, MagS-Ag with a combination of ease preparation, low cost and excellent recycle capability has a great potential for a broad application in respective fields.