Adsorption of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) by BaFe2O4-activated clay nanocomposite: preparation and evaluation

AbstractIn this study, BaFe2O4–activated clay nanocomposites were successfully synthesized via mechanosynthesis technique for the first time. Structural analysis of the products confirmed the nanoscale formation of nanocomposites. This study focused on adsorption of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) which is a poisonous gas and can be released from sewage sludge. Formation of nanocomposites was verified by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray (EDS) analysis, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and X-ray powder diffraction (XRD). Results showed that different loadings of barium ferrite in the nanocomposite were important for the adsorption rate. Furthermore, adsorption rate of hydrogen sulfide was improved by increasing BaFe2O4- activated clay concentration which was confirmed by statistical results. The highest average of removal efficiency was 92.79±0.90 in the concentration of 300 g.L-1and the loading of 6%. We could recycle BaFe2O4–activated clay nanocomposite 3 times without a significant decrease in activity. Enhanced performance of BaFe2O4–activated clay, compared to other nanocomposites, recommends its application for adsorptive desulfurization.