Powdered Carboxymethyl Chitosan-Engineered nZVI Nanocomposites for Rapid and Ultrahigh-Capacity Cr(VI) Removal

Key Points

• This study aims to enhance the efficiency of nZVI in removing chromium from contaminated water through the use of carboxymethyl chitosan.
• Synthesis of carboxymethyl chitosan-engineered nZVI nanocomposites.
• Assessment of nZVI performance in aqueous environments for chromium removal.
• Evaluation of aggregation and surface characteristics affecting remediation efficiency.
• ChMC-nZVI showed a significant increase in chromium removal capacity compared to unmodified nZVI.
• The engineered nanocomposites demonstrated enhanced stability and reduced aggregation.
• Rapid removal of Cr(VI) was achieved, indicating a potential for practical applications in heavy metal remediation.