Adsorption of Tetracycline onto MgFe-LDH/Cellulose Nanocrystals Structured Composite

This study focused on the functionalization of cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) with Mg/Fe-LDH composites to assess the performance and mechanism for tetracycline (TRC) removal from aqueous solutions. SEM images and the XRD patterns confirmed the cellulose nanocrystals have adhered over the surface of MgFe-LDH. The presence of CNCs over the LDH has considerably increased the specific surface area (107 to 158 m 2 /g) and the adsorption % of removal. The presence of salt ions in the solution was found to reduce the elimination of TRC (1.89–61% for NaHCO 3 ). The adsorption was fast reaching the maximum adsorption capacity after 180 min of contact. The equilibrium data were better fitted by the Langmuir model reaching a maximum adsorption capacity of 165.49 mg/g. Thermodynamics indicated an endothermic and spontaneous adsorption. Finally, the composite appears to hold great potential in purifying water systems by effectively removing pharmaceutical compounds.