Synthesis of nanocomposites of montmorillonite with carbon nanotubes as a potential material for water purification

Abstract

The main goal of this research is to create nanocomposites based on unmodified and iron-modified (FeNP) montmorillonite (Mt) and carbon nanotubes (CNT) synthesized using the chemical vapor deposition method. The target area for the application of these materials is the creation of water treatment systems. This paper compares the efficiency of the CNT synthesis process on Mt before and after modification with FeNP of different concentrations and provides the characterization of the CNT microstructure and structure using different methods, such as scanning electron microscopy, high-resolution transmission electron imaging, and Raman spectroscopy. For initial verification of properties important for water purification, Mt+CNT and Mt+FeNP+CNT nanocomposites on a carbon nonwoven fabric (CF) are tested in this work. Incubation of the above-mentioned samples in a water–oil mixture reveals complex adsorption dynamics. The CF+Mt+FeNP+CNT sample shows a very good oil adsorption capacity due to its superhydrophobic and oleophilic properties.