Encapsulating nanosilica into polyacrylic acid and chitosan interpenetrating network hydrogel for preconcentration of uranium from aqueous solutions

Polyacrylic acid, Chitosan and nanosilica particles composite (PCNS) was prepared for enrichment of U (VI) from aqueous solutions. Adsorption tests controlled by different parameters including contact time, pH, initial concentration of UO 2 2+ and coexistence ions were examined. FTIR, SEM and EDX studies proved the formation of composite and confirmed efficient adsorption of UO 2 2+ by PCNS. The experimental datas fit the Langmuir and pseudo-second-order models, the R L (0.115–0.645) indicates the adsorption of UO 2 2+ onto PCNS are favorable. The value of q m (451.118 mg g −1 ) and adsorption–desorption experiments showed PCNS hydrogel can be reckoned as a high efficienct and sustainable material for removal of U (VI).