Optimization of zeolite ETS-10 synthesis for enhanced Pb(II) adsorption from aqueous solutions

Abstract

The synthesis of zeolite ETS-10 is strongly influenced by factors such as pH, the amount of the structure-directing agent, hydrothermal temperature and duration, which collectively affect the material’s morphology and structure. This study thoroughly investigates the effects of these parameters on the synthesis of ETS-10 zeolite using TiCl₃ and a waterglass solution. Characterization of the materials was performed through X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), and nitrogen isotherm adsorption-desorption at 77 K (BET-BJH) techniques. The findings indicate that pH and the structure-directing agent significantly influenced the phase composition, while hydrothermal temperature predominantly determined the crystallization rate of ETS-10. Optimal synthesis conditions were established at an initial pH of 11, employing 0.3 g of the structure-directing agent and conducting hydrothermal crystallization at 230 °C for 24 h. Under these conditions, the ETS-10 zeolite produced exhibited a high surface area of 300.1 m²/g, making it effective in removing Pb²⁺ ions from solution. In particular, when tested under optimal conditions (pH 5) for 600 min, Pb (II) adsorption by ETS-10 reached a maximum uptake capacity of 956.19 mg/g, as determined by the Langmuir isotherm model. This capacity surpasses that of as-synthesized ETS-10 prepared from alternative Ti sources and other materials used in previous studies on Pb(II) adsorption.