One-dimensional graphene for efficient aqueous heavy metal adsorption: Rapid removal of arsenic and mercury ions by graphene oxide nanoribbons (GONRs)

There is a knowledge gap for the application of one-dimensional graphene in the adsorption process. Our hypothesis was based on the fact that graphene oxide nanoribbons (GONRs) as one-dimensional graphene with more desired edges and specific surface area than other carbonaceous nanomaterials have more oxygen containing functional groups (active sites) on their edges and basal planes and therefore are more capable in adsorption of pollutants. In this regard, we synthesized GONRs by unzipping of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) and investigated the adsorption behavior of GONRs by ultrasonic-assisted adsorptive removal of As(V) and Hg(II) ions from aqueous solution. The obtained results showed that As(V) ions are more favorably adsorbed onto the GONRs than Hg(II) ions and with increasing initial As(V) and Hg(II) ions concentration to 300 ppm, the equilibrium adsorption uptake of the synthesized GONRs increases to 155.61 and 33.02 mg/g for As(V) and Hg(II) ions, respectively through a rapid separation process in just 12 min. Also, three kinetic models and Freundlich and Langmuir adsorption isotherms were applied to evaluate the obtained experimental results. Our findings highlight the potential application of GONRs as one-dimensional graphene adsorbent with more desired edges than MWCNTs and graphene oxide (GO) and high adsorption capacity for selective removal of heavy metals. [Display omitted] •GONRs were synthesized via oxidative unzipping of MWCNTs.•The synthesized GONRs were used as adsorbent.•Ultrasonic-assisted adsorption removal of heavy metal ions was performed.•Quick equilibrium for As(V) and Hg(II) ions was obtained.•Three kinetic models and two isotherms were applied to fit the experimental results.