Optimization of an innovative composited material for effective monitoring and removal of cobalt(II) from wastewater

A newly designed composite adsorbent (CpAD), ultra-trace detection ability and a superior adsorption capability to that novel material, was fabricated by functional ligand (3-(((5-ethoxybenzenethiol)imino)methyl)–salicylic acid) combining with mesoporous silica. The resultant CpAD was maintained a high surface area with ordered porosity even after successful ligand anchoring. The application of cobalt (Co(II)) detection and adsorption was measured at an optimum experimental protocol with exhibition of significant color visualization. The experiment conditions were optimized based on contact time, solution pH, initial Co(II) concentration and diverse competing metal ions. The CpAD was able to detect the low level Co(II) ion as the detection limit was 0.39 μg/L. The data were clarified that the CpAD was not affected with the existing competing ions and the signal intensity and specific color was observed only toward the Co(II) ion. When used as an adsorbent, the CpAD was demonstrated a very quick adsorption property for the removal of Co(II) ions. The adsorption capability approaches 185.23 mg/g, which is one of the highest capabilities of today's materials. The data also revealed that the removal capabilities of the CpAD for Co(II) ions depended on the material functionality and initial concentration of Co(II) ions. The elution of Co(II) ions from the saturated composite adsorbent was desorbed successfully with 0.30 M HCl. The regenerated adsorbent that remained maintained the high selectivity to Co(II) ions and exhibited almost the same adsorption capacity as that of the original adsorbent. The highest percentage adsorption of Co(II) exceeds 96% in the presence of competing ion, indicating that the CpAD is one of the very suitable composite adsorbent in environmental pollution management.