Pectin–cerium (IV) tungstate nanocomposite and its adsorptional activity for removal of methylene blue dye

Pectin–cerium (IV) tungstate composite (Pc/ CT) has been prepared by sol gel method at room temperature. The composite ion exchanger has been characterized using X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and Fourier infrared spectroscopy. The ion exchange capacity, pH titrations, thermal stability and distribution coefficient of composite ion exchanger were investigated. The Na? ions exchange capacity of the Pc/CT has been observed higher (1.4 meq g^-1) as compared to its inorganic counterpart (0.8 meq g^-1). Pc/CT composite ion exchanger was thermally stable and retained about 60 % of its ion exchange capacity up to 400 °C. The distribution study has inferred more selective the Pc/CT for Zn²⁺ as compared to other metal ions. The adsorption efficiency of Pc/CT was tested for methylene blue removal dye from aqueous phase. The removal of dye followed pseudo-second-order kinetics.

Keywords
Pectin–cerium (IV) tungstate; Characterization; Methylene blue; Adsorption