Cu-TCPP Metal–Organic Nanosheets Embedded Thin-Film Composite Membranes for Enhanced Cyanide Detection and Removal: A Multifunctional Approach to Water Treatment and Environmental Safety

Abstract

Cyanide is highly toxic, with widespread industrial use posing serious environmental risks. Effective materials for detecting and filtering cyanide from water are urgently needed. This study introduces a novel approach utilizing Cu-TCPP (TCPP = o-tetra(4-carboxyphenyl)porphine) metal–organic nanosheets (MONS) embedded in thin-film composite membranes, offering a multifunctional solution for cyanide detection and filtration. Ultrathin Cu-TCPP MONs were synthesized using a surfactant-assisted method featuring highly accessible metal centers that enhance cyanide interaction and detection. The membranes, developed by modifying cellulose acetate (CA) with Cu-TCPP MONs, demonstrated exceptional performance for cyanide removal. The 6% Cu-TCPP/CA membrane exhibited a 2.3-fold increase in pure water permeability and achieved a cyanide removal efficiency of 94.68%, significantly outperforming the pristine 0% Cu-TCPP/CA membrane (Pure Water Permeability (PWP) = 380.83 L m^–2 h^–1 bar^–1; CN^– removal = 5.01%). This is the first report describing the detection and removal of CN^– in water using the membrane technique in literature. In addition to its removal efficiency, the Cu-TCPP MONs showed remarkable detection capabilities, with a calculated limit of detection of 1.76 × 10^–7 M, surpassing World Health Organization (WHO) and United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) safety standards for cyanide levels in water. Additionally, Cu-TCPP MONs, a bioimaging agent with excellent cell viability, were deployed to detect CN^– in MiaPaCa-2 cells, detecting concentrations as low as 0.1 ppm.