Studies on the performance of functionalized Fe3O4 as phosphate adsorbent and assessment to its environmental compatibility

The pressing demand to increase agricultural productivity amid the rapidly growing population has exponentially boosted fertilizers usage. Phosphate (Pi) runoff from induces eutrophication in water sources and severely affects its surrounding ecosystems. To cope with Pi accumulation problem, this study reported synthesis of an environmentally friendly magnetic adsorbent, namely Fe3O4/thiamine (thF). A one-step chemical oxidation functionalization technique for thF was developed. X-ray diffraction (XRD), photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR), nitrogen (N2) sorption, superconducting quantum interference device (SQUID) analysis were conducted ensure formation Fe3O4, confirm successful incorporation thiamine, gain insight into factors influencing adsorptivity thF-363. synthesized at 363 K (thF-363) produces adsorbent highest removal efficiency compared other conditions. thF-363 showed up 1.51-fold higher adsorption capacity than unmodified Fe3O4. large surface area occurrence thiamine functional groups are contributing enhancing removal. did not adversely affect growth model plant, Arabidopsis thaliana; demonstrating suitability as adsorbents eutrophicated feasibility separation aqueous system.