K4Nb6O17·4.5H2O: a novel dual functional material with quick photoreduction of Cr(VI) and high adsorptive capacity of Cr(III)

Abstract

A series of orthorhombic phase K4Nb6O17·4.5H2O was synthesized via a hydrothermal approach. When presented in an acidic pH range, K4Nb6O17·4.5H2O showed a strong ability in quick reduction from Cr(VI) to Cr(III). The resulted Cr(III) ions were removed by an effective adsorption through simply adjusting the solution pH from strong acidity to near neutrality, owing to the sample's unique nano-sheet structure with a wide layer spacing. The Cr(III) ions adsorbed onto samples were released again for reusing by eluting with 1molL(-1) HCl solution, and K4Nb6O17·4.5H2O regenerated by immersing in a KOH solution. The reduction efficiency of Cr(VI) was still up to 98% after irradiation for 60min, and the removal efficiency of Cr(III) ions was as high as 83% even after five cycles. Therefore, K4Nb6O17·4.5H2O is clearly demonstrated to be an excellent dual functional material with quick photoreduction of Cr(VI) and high adsorptive capacity of Cr(III). The relevant materials reported herein might be found various environment-related applications.

Keywords: Adsorption; Chromium species; K(4)Nb(6)O(17); Photocatalysis; Reduction.