Improvement of PVC/α-MnO2–LVA nanocomposites properties: A promising adsorbent for Pb (II) uptake

ABSTRACT

Poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) has some defects which have limited its utilization. Incorporation of nanoparticles within the PVC matrix is a suitable solution. Therefore, the alpha manganese dioxide (α-MnO₂) nanorods (NRs) were modified with l-valine amino acid (LVA) and incorporated into the PVC matrix. Thermal stability and mechanical properties of PVC/α-MnO₂–LVA nanocomposites (NCs) were improved. In following, the PVC/α-MnO₂–LVA NC 5 wt% was used as a sorbent for the elimination of Pb(ІІ) ions from the aqueous medium. This work not only attempts to cover the weaknesses of the PVC properties with proper filler but also introduces a new adsorbent in water treatment applications.