Synthesis, characterization, and valorization of Fe₃O₄/AC nanocomposite for adsorptive removal of crystal violet (CV) from aqueous solution

Activated carbon prepared from sawdust, magnetized by magnetite nanoparticles, was used for the adsorption of crystal violet dye (CV) from an aqueous solution. The nanocomposite Fe₃O₄/AC was characterized by means of XRD, FTIR, SEM, and BET analyses, along with size distribution and zeta potential assessments. The pH_PZC and BET surface area of Fe₃O₄/AC were 6.05 and 160 m²/g, respectively. The study identified the optimum pH condition as pH 9.0, with a maximum removal efficiency of 100%. Kinetic studies were conducted, and the data fitted well with the pseudo-second order equation. The synthesized Fe₃O₄/AC exhibits a maximum uptake capacity of 76.0 mg/g. Overall, this nanocomposite provides an effective type of adsorbent for removing CV dye. Its primary advantage lies in its simple synthesis compared to other magnetic materials, along with its economic viability, rapid preparation, and environmental friendliness.