Microwave Assisted Synthesis of Guar Gum Grafted Acrylic Acid/Nanoclay Superabsorbent Composites and Its Use in Crystal Violet Dye Absorption

Abstract

Natural gums can be tailored and used for the removal of toxic dyes like crystal violet via grafting techniques. However, grafting via microwave irradiation showed both higher yield and fast reaction kinetics as compared to conventional grafting. Silane modified nanoclay has been used to prepare acrylic acid grafted guar gum nanocomposites via microwave irradiation technique. The grafting was confirmed via infrared spectroscopy while XRD diffractograms suggested exfoliation of modified nanoclay in guar gum grafted acrylic acid. The reaction kinetic parameters have been optimized. The effect of nanoclay on swelling characteristics has been examined. The sensitivity of pH on swelling capabilities has also been assessed. The efficiency of the superabsorbent nanocomposite on the absorption of crystal violet dye has been studied. The superabsorbent nanocomposite loaded with 1.75% modified nanocaly was found to be optimal concentration for the removal of crystal violet dye.