One-pot synthesis of multi-functional magnetite-polysilsesquioxane hybrid nanoparticles for the selective Fe3+ and some heavy metal ions adsorption

Multi-functional magnetite-polysilsesquioxane (PSSQ) hybrid nanoparticles were synthesised in a one-pot approach using ferrous and ferric chlorides and various silane monomers by coprecipitation followed by a surface grafting method. The functional groups, surface properties, and thermal stability of the materials were analyzed using a range of characterisation techniques. Furthermore, the functional magnetic hybrid nanoparticles were used for the adsorption of heavy metal ions. The results suggest that the magnetic PSSQ hybrid nanoparticles have excellent adsorption and selectivity behavior for iron (Fe3+) and some heavy metal ions as individual ions or in mixtures of metal ions. The adsorption kinetics highlighted the excellent adsorption behavior of the functionalised magnetic PSSQ hybrid nanoparticles. On the other hand, the adsorption behavior depends on the type of functional groups present in the materials. These promising and highly desirable magnetic hybrid materials can be used in a wide range of applications.