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Structure–performance relationship of bulk functionalized polyurethane foams designed for lead ion removal from water

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Abstract

Lead ion removal mechanism of bulk functionalized polyurethane foams were investigated by batch and column tests. The pH changes in the lead solution, before and after batch tests, indicate that both adsorption and ion exchange mechanisms are active in removing lead ions from water. The adsorption mechanism was benchmarked by comparing the adsorption isotherms of the control and functionalized PU foams with a commercially used adsorption media; such as granular activated carbon (GAC). Chemical structural analysis by FTIR shows a change in the peak intensities and wave numbers associated with the sulfonic groups after lead removal. Physical structure analysis by micro-CT reveals that fluid flow in the foams is through interconnected channels within and in between pores.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Materials Science and Engineering Department, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, 3200 N. Cramer St., Milwaukee, WI, 53201, USA

    Subhashini Gunashekar & Nidal Abu-Zahra

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  1. Subhashini Gunashekar
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  2. Nidal Abu-Zahra
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Correspondence to Nidal Abu-Zahra.

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Gunashekar, S., Abu-Zahra, N. Structure–performance relationship of bulk functionalized polyurethane foams designed for lead ion removal from water. J Porous Mater 23, 801–810 (2016). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10934-016-0135-x

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10934-016-0135-x

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