Silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) embedded in zeolite framework: A comprehensive study on bromide removal from water, including characterization, antibacterial properties, and adsorption mechanisms
Aiman Eid Al‐Rawajfeh, Albara Ibrahim Alrawashdeh, Mohammad Taha Etiwi, Ali Alnawaiseh, Muhammad Kashif Shahid, Mohanad Masad, Sumaia Omar Oran, Solhe F. Alshahateet
Abstract
In this comprehensive study, a novel adsorbent material comprising silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) zeolite composite was synthesized and characterized for its efficacy in removing bromide ions from water. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR) and X-ray Diffraction (XRD) analyses confirmed the successful integration of Ag-NPs within the zeolite framework, ensuring structural integrity and chemical composition. Under varying operational conditions, the batch experiments consistently exhibited the zeolite with Ag-NPs as superior in bromide removal efficacy compared to zeolite alone, both achieving over 96% removal efficiency. Moreover, the adsorption kinetics aligned well with a second-order reaction model. Furthermore, column studies revealed that zeolite with Ag-NPs performed better than zeolite in maintaining efficient bromide removal over extended durations, highlighting its long-term operational potential. Thermodynamic investigations indicated the exothermic and spontaneous nature of the bromide ion adsorption process, supported by negative ΔG° values. Across temperatures ranging from 22 to 52 °C, the ΔG° values were observed to range from − 1.275 to − 0.049 kJ/mol for bromide removal using zeolite and − 1.90 to − 0.909 kJ/mol for zeolite+Ag-NPs, indicating their favorable adsorption characteristics. Furthermore, the study revealed the remarkable antimicrobial properties of the zeolite with Ag-NPs, as evidenced by a significant reduction in bacterial growth compared to pure zeolite, suggesting its dual application potential for both bromide removal and water disinfection. In conclusion, the integration of Ag-NPs into zeolite represents a promising potential for sustainable and multifunctional water treatment solutions.