Synthesis of cross-linked sulfonated poly(ether ether ketone) and its use for Pb2+ and 137Cs removal from aqueous solution

Sulfonated ion irradiated (H + and He 2+ ) PEEK films were synthesized with a range of cross-linking density and a variety of sulfonation degrees. Batch adsorption experiments were carried out at an initial pH of 6.0 ± 0.2, initial concentrations of Pb 2+ and 137 Cs ions of 10.0 mg L −1 and 5500 Bq L −1 , respectively. The maximum adsorption capacity was 60 mg g −1 for Pb 2+ , and the distribution coefficient reached 6200 cm 3 g −1 for 137 Cs. The results indicated that sulfonation could be used to recycle low cross-linked PEEK and prepare efficient adsorbents to remove toxic Pb 2+ and 137 Cs from polluted aqueous solutions.