Volume 49 Number 3

Methylene blue removal from aqueous solutions using corn cobs (Zea mays L.)-derived graphene oxide immobilized in a chitosan/ZnO nanocomposite

Henry F. Aritonang^a,*, Audy D. Wuntu^a, Widya A. Lolo^b

 
ABSTRACT:     Synthetic dyes are highly dangerous if not managed properly. Many studies have reported the use of economical materials and methods. In this study, GO/CS/ZnO composites were synthesized by immobilizing graphene oxide (GO) into chitosan (CS)/ZnO. The steps carried out were corncob carbonization, graphite formation, GO preparation, and finally, GO/CS/ZnO composite synthesis. The composites were evaluated as adsorbents for the methylene blue (MB) dye. The final yield achieved during the composite synthesis stage was 96.9%. This figure represents a significantly higher product recovery than that obtained in the preceding synthesis steps for both the graphite and the GO. XRDandFTIRdatasupportedthepresenceofcomponentsinthecompositematerial, as confirmed by EDS analysis, which showed elemental compositions of 55.8%, 10.9%, and 32.4% for C, O, and Zn, respectively. The morphology of each material was different; GO showed a smoother surface compared to other materials, while the composite showed agglomeration due to the combination of GO, CS, and ZnO. The adsorption activity test showed that the composite had better adsorption efficiency compared to its raw materials, with efficiencies of 89.2%, 96.6%, and 98.0% for contact time, pH, and MB concentration, respectively. The adsorption equilibrium model of the composite followed the Freundlich model. Therefore, this composite holds great promise for development as an adsorbent for synthetic dyes or other substances.

Download PDF

Downloads Views

* Corresponding author, E-mail: henryaritonang@unsrat.ac.id

Received 7 Jul 2025, Accepted 12 Jan 2026