Immobilization of magnetite nanoparticles for the removal of arsenic and antimony from contaminated water

Magnetite (Fe₃O₄) nanoparticles were synthesized and immobilized in a synthetic resin polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA). The Fe₃O₄ nanoparticle-PMMA composites were studied for their efficiencies of removing dissolved arsenic (As) and antimony (Sb). The effects of major environmental and operating parameters on the removal of As and Sb were investigated in batch experiments. Singular and competitive adsorption of As and Sb onto the composites were studied. The results demonstrated the capability of the Fe₃O₄-PMMA composites for removing dissolved metalloids.