Abstract

This work aims to contribute to the development of new materials for environmental protection. The preparation and characterisation of new materials based on magnetic nanoparticles on a dolomite matrix are presented, along with an evaluation of their ability to remove nickel (II) from aqueous solutions. Different systems were prepared: pure dolomite, a mechanical mixture of dolomite with magnetic nanoparticles, and nanoparticles supported on a dolomite matrix. These systems were characterised, revealing distinct structural properties of the nanoparticles supported on a dolomite matrix. Tests were performed in batch and in continuous reactors under different operating conditions. These studies demonstrated a higher adsorption capacity for nanoparticles supported on a dolomite matrix. Removals of 39.6%, 17.4%, and 4.59% were obtained with nanoparticles supported on a dolomite matrix, magnetic nanoparticles mixed with dolomite, and dolomite alone, respectively. Furthermore, in fixed-bed reactors, nanoparticles supported on a dolomite matrix exhibited greater operational stability. These results position the nanoparticles supported on a dolomite matrix as a viable and safe option for treating industrial effluents.