Removal of phosphate and nitrate ions aqueous using strontium magnetic graphene oxide nanocomposite: Isotherms, kinetics, and thermodynamics studies

Magnetic Fe3O4 nanoparticle decorated graphene oxide (GO) was modified with strontium nanoparticles (MGO-Sr) and applied for enhanced removal of phosphate and nitrate ions from river and sewage water samples. The nanocomposite's features were investigated using Fourier transform-infrared spectrometry, field emission-scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction. The effective parameters, adsorption efficiency, regeneration, and field application of MGO-Sr were also studied. Adsorption isotherm and kinetic models were applied for evaluation of experimental adsorption process. The data was in well comply with Langmuir isotherm and pseudo-second-order comparing with other models. Langmuir maximum adsorption capacity was obtained equal to 238.09 mg/g for phosphate and 357.14 mg/g for nitrate. Van't Hoff thermodynamic predicted an exothermic nature for adsorption process followed by a physisorption mechanism. The prepared nanocomposite provided a high-removal efficiency toward phosphate and nitrate ions in river and sewage water. Hence, it is applicable in water remediation process.