Ion Irradiated Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes-Based Filters for Methylene Blue Removal from Water Resources

Filtration is a frequently used technology for removing contaminants from wastewater. Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are gaining popularity as adsorbents due to their distinct cylindrical hollow structure, wide surface area, high aspect ratios, hydrophobic wall, and easily changed surfaces. In the current investigation, the irradiation of the multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWNTs-TM) by 100 keV He⁺ ions is conducted to enhance the adsorption potential applications. The adsorption efficiency of ion-irradiated MWNTs was examined by the removal of methylene blue from aqueous solutions as a function of different operational parameters like dye concentration, MWNTs mass, and temperature. The dye removal by irradiated MWNT-based filters could reach 85%. Irradiated MWNTs have greater surface-to-volume ratio than pristine ones, which improves the efficiency of MWNTs-based filters for water purification applications. The ion irradiation process provides an effective approach to modify MWNTs and significantly control their adsorption efficiency.