Characterization of molybdenum disulfide nanomaterial and its excellent sorption abilities for two heavy metals in aqueous media

Here, molybdenum sulfide (MoS2) was characterized and its performance as an adsorbent for Co(II)/Ni(II) removal from water was estimated in batch experiments. The nanomaterial exhibits thin-layered structure and contains numerous hydroxyl groups. High pH enhanced Co(II)/Ni(II) sorption, while ionic strength had no effect. The chemical sorption between the binding sites of MoS2 and Co(II)/Ni(II) limited the rate. The Freundlich isotherm correlated better than Langmuir isotherm. The maximum sorption capacity for Co(II)/Ni(II) was 370.10/375.94 mg· g−1, obviously exceeding other adsorbents. Both adsorptions were endothermic and spontaneous processes. This study indicates the intrinsic value of MoS2 in removing heavy metals from water.