Triple layered core–shell ZVI@carbon@polyaniline composite enhanced electron utilization in Cr(vi) reduction

Abstract

PANI and carbon layers in the ZVI@C@PANI enhanced H ⁺capture and electron utilization in the Cr( vi) reduction for an enhanced Cr( vi) removal performance.

Abstract

A triple layered core–shell structured zero valence iron@carbon@polyaniline (ZVI@C@PANI) nanocomposite was synthesized and was used to reduce the Cr( vi) in wastewater. The synthesized ZVI@C@PANI was demonstrated to have a great Cr( vi) removal performance with a fast rate and high capacity. ZVI@C@PANI can reduce almost all the hexavalent chromium (Cr( vi)) (1.0 mg L ⁻¹) Cr( vi) in 5 min, and has a maximum capacity of 508 mg g ⁻¹. A maximum Cr( vi) removal capacity of 508 mg g ⁻¹was achieved. The shell layers of C@PANI were demonstrated to be important to improve the electron utilization of the inner ZVI. The PANI shell captured and stored the H ⁺from the solution, providing an acidic condition on its surface. The carbon layer can adjust the H ⁺and H ₂transfer in the ZVI@C@PANI. These were disclosed as the mechanisms for the improved electron utilization by this core–shell structured ZVI@C@PANI.