Synthesis of New Triazolyl Starch Derivatives for Heavy Metals Removal

Abstract

This work presents the synthesis and application of novel triazolyl starch derivatives (TABS) designed for the efficient removal of heavy metal ions from aqueous solutions. The synthetic pathway involves tosylation of natural starch, azidation, and copper-catalyzed azide–alkyne cycloaddition (CuAAC) with propargylated aromatic aldehydes to yield triazolyl-functionalized starch. Structural and morphological features were confirmed by FT-IR, SEM, and EDX analyses. The adsorption performance of TABS was evaluated under various pH values, contact times, and Pb²+ concentrations, showing a maximum removal efficiency of 99% and adsorption capacity of 99.0 mg g-1. The enhanced affinity is attributed to chelation through triazole rings and aldehyde groups. Derived from renewable starch and demonstrating low antibacterial activity, TABS represents a promising, low-toxicity material for sustainable water purification applications.