Development and Optimization of CoO and MgO Nanoparticles for Enhanced Wastewater Treatment and Heavy Metal Removal
Abstract
This study investigates the synthesis, optimization, and characterization of cobalt oxide (CoO) and magnesium oxide (MgO) nanoparticles (NPs) for wastewater treatment, focusing on their efficacy in removing heavy metals. The nanoparticles were synthesized through a polymer encapsulation method, using chitosan and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) as polymer matrices. The optimization process involved varying the concentrations of CoO (0.1–1.0 M), MgO (0.1–1.0 M), and polymers (0.5–5% w/v) to determine the most effective formulation for enhancing nanoparticle stability, size, and adsorption capacity. Characterization techniques such as 1H-NMR, FTIR, Particle Size Analyzer (PSA), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), and Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) were employed to evaluate the structural, chemical, and thermal properties of the nanoparticles. The nanoparticles exhibited a size range of 20–50 nm with a zeta potential of +25 to +30 mV, indicating good dispersion and stability in aqueous solutions. The synthesized nanoparticles were tested for their ability to adsorb heavy metals (Pb²⁺, Cd²⁺, As³⁺) from simulated wastewater. Results showed that both CoO and MgO nanoparticles effectively removed 85–90% of Pb²⁺, 80–85% of Cd²⁺, and 75–80% of As³⁺, demonstrating high adsorption capacity. Post-treatment, carbon filtration and reverse osmosis were used to remove the nanoparticles from the treated water, ensuring the safety and efficiency of the process. This research highlights the potential of CoO and MgO nanoparticles as effective adsorbents for heavy metal removal in wastewater, offering a sustainable and cost-effective solution for environmental remediation.
How to Cite
Ekta, Sanjeev Sharma, "Development and Optimization of CoO and MgO Nanoparticles for Enhanced Wastewater Treatment and Heavy Metal Removal", Vol. 4, Issue 2, 27-08-2026, pp. 84-93. DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.21818811
