Evaluation of the mercury ions adsorption capacity of copper-based metal-organic frameworks/poly (lactic acid) composites

The copper-based metal-organic frameworks (Cu-MOFs) was synthesized via the hydrothermal method and modified by 1,2-ethanedithiol. Then the Cu-MOFs/poly (lactic acid) (PLA) composites with various components were prepared by the melt blending extrusion and characterized. Their mercury ions (Hg2+) adsorption capacity was evaluated. Cu-MOFs could be dispersed well in PLA matrix. The glass transition temperature, crystalline temperature and melting temperature of the composites were increased as a result of the addition of Cu-MOFs. The thermal stability and crystallinity of the composites slightly improved. The Hg2+ adsorption efficiency of the composites enhanced with the increasing of Cu-MOFs content.