Preparation of Prussian-blue analogue/carbon nanotube sponge adsorbent for cesium

A novel kind of multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWNT) spongiform adsorbent, with nickel Prussian-blue analogue (NiPB) inside its porous surface was prepared. The carbon nanotube sponge (C/MWNTs) was equipped with large holes and a porous structure, and MWNTs were uniformly distributed in the porous surfaces. The optimal carbonisation temperature of the C/MWNTs as a best substrate for growing NiPB was studied. NiPB particles were fastened on cell walls of the C/MWNTs for ion exchange of cesium in the ternary adsorbent material NiPB/C/MWNTs. The adsorption studies revealed that this novel adsorbent has a good ability to adsorb cesium ions in aqueous solution.