Preparation and characterisation of nZnO/Fly Ash Composite

Abstract

Composite material involving fly ash and nZnO wasprepared by dispersion technique. The nature, morphologyand the properties of the precursors and the composite weredetermined and compared by scanning electron microscopy,surface area determination by BET, and x-ray diffraction.The ash and carbon contents, particle size, pH and point of zero charge of the materials were also investigated.Experimental results showed that the surfaces of fly ash andnZnO are positively charged and will be favourable to theadsorption of anionic complexes and heavy metals whilethe surface of nZnO/fly ash is negatively charged and willbe suitable for the adsorption of cationic complexes.Moreover, the composition of fly ash and nZnO contributedto the development of intergranular voids and crevices withhigh surface and micropore areas that will enhance theadsorption of pollutants from wastewaters.