Fabrication of Nanocomposite Adsorbent Based on MnO2-loaded Polymer Fibers for Strontium Ions

Novel nanocomposite adsorbent based on manganese dioxide-loaded polyacylonitrile propylene fibers was synthesized for selective removal of strontium ions from contaminated waters by in situ formation of manganese dioxide with layered structure (birnessite) nanoparticles on the fibers surface. Data of scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction confirmed the formation of birnessite homogeneous layer on the fibers surface, which consisted of rounded nanoparticles (50 to 70 nm). The efficiency of the synthesized adsorbent for removal of strontium ions was studied under various experimental conditions. It has demonstrated a rapid adsorption process, high adsorption efficiency over a wide pH range, and selectivity in Sr ions removal from model solutions with high salt content.