OILY WASTEWATER TREATMENT BY MAGNETIC CARBON NANOTUBES NANOCOMPOSITE

Abstract

A magnetic multi-wall carbon nanotube (MCNTs) nanocomposite was synthesized and was used as an adsorbent for removal of oil from aqueous solutions. The MCNTs nanocomposite was composed of commercial multi-wall carbon nanotubes and iron oxide nanoparticles. The property of this magnetic adsorbent was characterized by scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction and VSM. Adsorption characteristics of the MCNT nanocomposite was examined using diesel oil (DO) as adsorbate. The sorption capacity was affected significantly by the initial concentration of DO, sorbent amount and contact time. Batch experiments were conducted to investigate the affect of different DO initial concentration (ranging from 0.2 to 1.0%) and contact time (10 to 90 min) to the removal efficiency. This MCNTs nanocomposite can be recycled conveniently from water with the assist of an external magnet because of their exceptional properties.