A novel CuO NPs/AgZSM-5 zeolite composite adsorbent: Synthesis, identification and its application for the removal of sulfur mustard agent simulant

In this investigation, the parent NaZSM-5 zeolite has been successfully fabricated by the hydrothermal route and then to enhance the catalytic performance of this zeolite, silver ions (Ag+) and copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO NPs) were loaded in its structure through the ion exchange and impregnation methods to attain the novel CuO NPs/AgZSM-5 zeolite composite adsorbent. The parent and modified samples were comprehensively analyzed and identified by using the FESEM-EDX, TEM, XRD, and FTIR techniques. This is the first time that the CuO NPs/AgZSM-5 (containing 3.4 wt% Ag and 12.6 wt% CuO) has been utilized for the removal (adsorption and degradation) of 2-chloroethyl phenyl sulfide (2-CEPS) as a toxic sulfur mustard agent simulate, and its applicability was proved according to the GC-FID, GC-MS, and FTIR results. Moreover, the consequences of several experimental factors such as contact time, initial concentration, adsorbent dose, and adsorbent type on the removal efficiency of 2-CEPS were also surveyed. The GC-FID analysis data confirmed that the maximum removal yield of 2-CEPS was 100%. Besides, the parameters of contact time (120 min), initial concentration (25 mg/L), and adsorbent dose (0.3 g) were perused and optimized for the subsequent reaction. The reaction kinetic status was also studied employing first order model. The quantities of the half-life (t1/2) and rate constant (k) were indicated as 26.25 min and 0.0264 min−1, respectively. The product obtained from the degradation and hydrolysis reaction between the 2-CEPS and CuO NPs/AgZSM-5 was 2-hydroxy ethyl phenyl sulfide (2-HEPS) which is substantially less toxic than original pesticide. [Display omitted] •The CuO NPs/AgZSM-5 adsorbent composite was synthesized via the impregnation method.•The CuO NPs/AgZSM-5 was applied for the high yield removal of 2-CEPS.•The reaction kinetic status was also studied employing first order model.•2-hydroxy ethyl phenyl sulfide (2-HEPS) as the degradation product was attained.