Viologen-Derived Covalent Organic Frameworks: Advancing PFAS Removal Technology with High Adsorption Capacity

Research output: Contribution to journalResearch articleContributedpeer-review

Contributors

  • Amin Zadehnazari - , Cornell University (Author)
  • Ahmadreza Khosropour - , Cornell University (Author)
  • Amin Zarei - , Cornell University (Author)
  • Leila Khazdooz - , Cornell University (Author)
  • Saeed Amirjalayer - , University of Münster (Author)
  • Florian Auras - , Chair of Molecular Functional Materials (cfaed), TUD Dresden University of Technology (Author)
  • Alireza Abbaspourrad - , Cornell University (Author)

Abstract

The escalating presence of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in drinking water poses urgent public health concerns, necessitating effective removal. This study presents a groundbreaking approach, using viologen to synthesize covalent organic framework nanospheres: MELEM-COF and MEL-COF. Characterized by highly crystalline features, these nanospheres exhibit exceptional affinity for diverse anionic PFAS compounds, achieving simultaneous removal of multiple contaminants within 30 min. Investigating six anionic PFAS compounds, MEL- and MELEM-COFs achieved 90.0–99.0% removal efficiency. The integrated analysis unveils the synergistic contributions of COF morphology and functional properties to PFAS adsorption. Notably, MELEM-COF, with cationic surfaces, exploits electrostatic and dipole interactions, with a 2500 mg g−1 adsorption capacity—surpassing all reported COFs to date. MELEM-COF exhibits rapid exchange kinetics, reaching equilibrium within 30 min. These findings deepen the understanding of COF materials and promise avenues for refining COF-based adsorption strategies.

Details

Original languageEnglish
Article number2405176
JournalSmall
Volume20
Issue number46
Publication statusPublished - 14 Nov 2024
Peer-reviewedYes

External IDs

PubMed 39115339

Keywords

Sustainable Development Goals

Keywords

  • adsorption mechanism, covalent organic framework, microporous materials, PFAS