Robust and recyclable sodium carboxymethyl cellulose–ammonium phosphomolybdate composites for cesium removal from wastewater

A novel, facilely prepared, recyclable sodium carboxymethyl cellulose–ammonium phosphomolybdate composite (CMC–AMP) was synthesized by chemical cross-linking and used for Cs(+) removal. The effects of adsorbent dosage, pH value, initial Cs(+) concentration, contact time, temperature and competitive ions on adsorption were investigated. The results showed that CMC–AMP with good mechanical properties could effectively adsorb Cs(+) in a wide pH range. In addition, the adsorption process of CMC–AMP was better fitted with the Lagergren first-second model and Langmuir isotherm model. Furthermore, CMC–AMP can be reused five times using ammonium chloride as the eluent without an obvious decrease in absorption activity. The results reveal that CMC–AMP can be used as a low cost and recyclable Cs(+) adsorbent.