Investigation of iron oxide nanoparticles embedded in Laponite hydrogels for water purification

Water remediation remains a prominent issue globally; specifically, there are many heavy metal toxins including chromium that remain in drinking water that have serious, long term health effects. Since it is odorless and undetectable by taste and poses significant health risk as a carcinogen and reproductive toxin, it is vital to keep chromium levels well below EPA standards. Nanomaterials offer emerging and effective techniques to remediate heavy metals and other contaminants from polluted water. To this end, we have focused on using Laponite hydrogels to template the growth of iron oxide nanoparticles in water. These magnetically active iron oxide nanoparticles may be used in combination with other metal oxides to purify drinking water. Infrared spectroscopy, X-Ray diffraction and scanning electron microscope were used to characterize and analyze the dimensionality and functionality of these porous nanocomposites. We hope to better understand the influence of clay architectures on the synthesis and morphology of iron oxide nanoparticles to realize novel water filters.