Synthesis of Graft Copolymer of Poly(acrylic acid) and Poly(vinyl alcohol) in the Presence of Methylene Bisacrylamide Crosslinker and Investigation of its Efficiency in Removing Lead Ion from Aqueous Solution

A novel graft copolymer of acrylic acid onto poly(vinyl alcohol) has been synthesized and it is crosslinked by methylene bisacrylamide for the investigation of its efficiency in removing lead ion from aqueous solution. The chemical nature of the ion exchange resin has been elucidated with the help of chemical test, FTIR, TGA and DSC. Particle size (0.20 mm), surface area (85.6 m2/g), ion exchange capacity (5.3 meq H+/g), optimum pH (4.5), time (60 min) and temperature (40C) for Pb(II) adsorption were determined. Metal ion adsorption kinetics, isotherms and thermodynamics have been studied. A plausible mechanism for lead ion exchange has been suggested.