Free-standing SiO2/TiO2–MoS2 composite nanofibrous membranes as nanoadsorbents for efficient Pb(ii) removal†
Abstract
Concerns regarding improper disposal of heavy metals have been considerably increasing in the last years due to their deleterious effects on human health and the environment. Therefore, designing appropriate materials capable of removing metal ions from wastewater has become imperative. Herein, we report the use of flexible free-standing silicon dioxide/titanium dioxide (SiO2/TiO2) nanofibrous membranes (NFMs) functionalized with molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) for Pb(II) removal. The proposed hybrid nanomaterial was characterized using field-emission gun scanning electron microscopy (FEG-SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Benefiting from the large specific surface area, high porosity, and the interaction between sulfur and lead, the NFMs could decontaminate water samples with good Pb(II) removal efficiency and recyclability. These excellent performances endow the modified nanofibrous membranes with great potential for application in wastewater treatment.