Nanoscale Insights into the Interaction Mechanism Underlying the Adsorption and Retention of Heavy Metal Ions by Humic Acid.

The mobility and distribution of heavy metal ions (HMs) in aquatic environments are significantly influenced by humic acid (HA), which is ubiquitous. A quantitative understanding of the interaction mechanism underlying the adsorption and retention of HMs by HA is of vital significance but remains elusive. Herein, the interaction mechanism between HA and different types of HMs (i.

Facet-dependent adsorption of heavy metal ions on Janus clay nanosheets.

Understanding the facet-dependent adsorption behavior and mechanism of heavy metal ions (HMs) on two-dimensional (2D) Janus nanoclays has important implications for the environment and ecosystem but still remains elusive. Herein, ultrathin Janus serpentene (2D serpentine) nanosheets were fabricated via a facile, nontoxic, and residue-free exfoliation strategy. Fabricated serpentene nanosheets exhibited promising Cd(II) and Pb(II) adsorption capacities due to their high surface areas and abundant active sites, approximately four times higher than those of bulk serpentine powders.

Cd(II) adsorption on earth-abundant serpentine in aqueous environment: Role of interfacial ion specificity.

Adsorption of heavy metal ions (e.g., Cd(II)) on clay minerals significantly affects their transport and fate in natural and engineered waterbodies.