Synthesis, characterization, and valorization of Fe3O4/AC nanocomposite for adsorptive removal of crystal violet (CV) from aqueous solution

Activated carbon prepared from sawdust, magnetized by magnetite nanoparticles, was used for the adsorption of crystal violet dye (CV) from an aqueous solution. The nanocomposite Fe3O4/AC was characterized by means of XRD, FTIR, SEM, and BET analyses, along with size distribution and zeta potential assessments. The pH(PZC) and BET surface area of Fe3O4/AC were 6.05 and 160 m(2)/g, respectively. The study identified the optimum pH condition as pH 9.0, with a maximum removal efficiency of 100%. Kinetic studies were conducted, and the data fitted well with the pseudo-second order equation. The synthesized Fe3O4/AC exhibits a maximum uptake capacity of 76.0 mg/g. Overall, this nanocomposite provides an effective type of adsorbent for removing CV dye. Its primary advantage lies in its simple synthesis compared to other magnetic materials, along with its economic viability, rapid preparation, and environmental friendliness.