Synthesis and characterization of ZnO–NiO composites for efficient U(VI) scavenger

_(1-x)ZnO–_xNiO nanocomposites (where x = 0.05, 0.10, 0.15 and 0.20) have been successfully synthesized using a mechanical mixing approach. Structural phase, morphological, and elemental composition analysis have been carried out using X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscope, EDX, and XPS analysis. The systematic batch mode adsorption studies were carried out to evaluate the optimized adsorption behavior of synthesized nanocomposites (pH = 6; contact time = 90 min and adsorption dose = 0.5 g/L). Kinetic studies revealed that the prepared nanocomposite (_0.80ZnO_0.20NiO) successfully adsorbs U(VI) through a chemisorption nature with the maximum Langmuir capacity (~ 151.20 mg/g). The results demonstrated that the prepared _0.80ZnO_0.20NiO can be used as a packaging material for column units in water purifiers.