High adsorption performance of Cr(VI) ions from the electroplating waste solution using surface‐modified porous poly 2‐((methacryloxy)methyl)oxirane polymers

Abstract

The stainless steel waste solutions, produced during the electroplating process, were found to contain high chromium content (43.52 g/L). To avoid environmental chromium contamination and chromium toxicity, these wastes must be treated. In this work, new surface‐modified porous poly‐2‐((methacryloxy)‐methyl)‐oxirane polymers were synthesized, characterized, and then used to recover Cr (VI) from electroplating waste solution. Based on the obtained results, Cr(VI) adsorption improved with time and initial metal ion concentration. The results indicate a favourable chemisorption process controlled by pseudo second‐order rate and intraparticle diffusion mechanisms. The used polymers are capable of disposing of Cr(VI) species from wastewater with a maximum adsorption capacity of 4.21 and 5.31 mmol/g for RI@EDA and HCl@RI@EDA, respectively. The used resins showed superior affinity and efficiency in removing Cr(VI) from the electroplating waste solution.