Activated carbon encapsulated Aluminum metal–organic frameworks as an active and recyclable adsorbent for removal of different dyes and lead from aqueous solution

The adsorption of heavy metals and dyes has become a significant area of research due to their detrimental effects on human health and the environment. Activated carbon (AC) is widely recognized for its excellent adsorption properties, while metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) are gaining attention for their high surface area and tunable characteristics. In this study, we investigate the adsorption of lead ions on AC supported by MIL-101(Al) with varying compositions synthesized through solvothermal techniques. Characterization techniques such as SEM, TEM, XRD, and FTIR were employed to examine the morphology, crystalline structure, and functional groups of the synthesized materials. The adsorption efficiency of AC/MIL-101(Al) composites for removing brilliant green (BG), congo red (CR), and lead ions from aqueous solutions was evaluated, focusing on factors like pH, adsorbent dosage, dye concentration, and adsorption time. The results indicated that AC/MIL-101(Al) composites exhibited faster adsorption kinetics than pure MIL-101(Al) and pure AC under optimal conditions. The composite demonstrated exceptional performance, with maximum adsorption capacities of 306 mg/g for BG, 585 mg/g for CR, and 241 mg/g for lead ions. This study introduces a novel approach for creating a highly effective nano-porous adsorbent using MOFs, aimed at effectively removing organic dyes and heavy metals from water.