Advanced Materials Research Vol. 1170

Abstract: This study aims to evaluate the adsorption performance of an amine-functionalized MCM–41 mesoporous silica nanoparticles system (MCM–41–NH₂) as an adsorbent for the removal of different pharmaceutical pollutants from aqueous solutions. The modification of MCM-41 was achieved through post-synthesis treatment in the presence du 3-Aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTES). Surface and structural characteristics of MCM-41 and MCM–41–NH₂ were examined using N₂ adsorption–desorption analysis, X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and point of zero charge analysis. In addition, thermal stability was investigated by thermogravimetric analysis. The kinetics study shows that adsorption on MCM–41–NH₂ follows pseudo-second-order rate expression. Isotherm study showed that the experimental data fitted well with the Langmuir equation. Moreover, the maximum adsorption capacities of MCM–41–NH2 were: (129.8, 272.0, 233.2 and 318.6) mg/g for Diclofenac, Ibuprofen, Oxacillin and Trihydrated Amoxicillin respectively). The adsorption is controlled by the surface charges of the adsorbent and the adsorbate. Compared with other adsorbents, MCM–41–NH₂ was more effective for the different pharmaceutical removal.