TiO2-kaolinite nanocomposite prepared from the Jordanian Kaolin clay: Adsorption and thermodynamics of Pb(II) and Cd(II) ions in aqueous solution

Akl M. Awwad, Mohammad W. Amer and Marwa M. Al-aqarbeh

Abstract

Metal oxides nanoparticles/clay nanocomposites attractd much attention as an adsorbent for the removal of metal ions. TiO2/kaolinite nanocomposite was prepared from the raw Jordanian kaolin clay and evaluated for the removal of Pb(II) and Cd(II) ions from aqueous solutions through adsorption process. The removal percent (%R) of metal ions was determined as a function of contact time, solution pH, adsorbent dosage and temperature. The maximum adsorption capacity, qmax for Pb(II) and Cd(II) ions as evaluated by Langmuir isotherm model were 333.33 mg/g and 250 mg/g, respectively. The prepared TiO2/kaolinite nanocomposite from the Jordanian kaolin clay displayed the main advantage for complete removal of Pb(II) and Cd(II) ions from aqueous solutions by a batch adsorption treatment. In view of promising adsorption efficiency for Pb(II) and Cd(II) ions, the TiO2/kaolinite nanocomposites could possibly be used for the adsorption metal ions form industrial wastewater.