Synthesis and Characterization Studies of CMC/NCC Nano Composites Derived From Textile Waste for the Adsorption of Lanthanum Ions From Aqueous Solutions

This study investigated the adsorption efficiency of lanthanum (La) ions, a rare-earth element, using nanocrystalline cellulose (NCC)-reinforced carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) biopolymers synthesized from textile waste. Microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) was derived via acid hydrolysis, followed by NCC synthesis through basic reaction. The characterization was performed using FT-IR, SEM, XPS and XRD analyses. Key adsorption parameters, including pH, initial concentration, agitation time, and temperature, were optimized. The adsorption process of La(III) ions onto the CMC/NCC nanocomposite follows the Langmuir isotherm model with a high adsorption capacity of 38.13 mg/g, indicating monolayer adsorption, while thermodynamic analysis reveals the process is endothermic, spontaneous at higher temperatures, and predominantly governed by physicochemical interactions. The CMC-NCC biopolymer presents an economical, effective, and eco-friendly alternative for lanthanum removal from aqueous solutions.