LAUSR

Abstract A novel and facile approach was explored to design a bio-based nanoheterojunction of cadmium sulfide (CdS) nanoparticles using silanized cellulose nano fibers (SCNF) derived from sugarcane bagasse as a template to augment the adsorption capacity of pristine CdS. SCNF provided a confined space for CdS nanoparticles to grow without agglomeration. The fabricated nanocomposites i.e. CdS@x%SCNF (x = 5, 10, 15, 20, 50) showed improved adsorption properties for the abolition of pernicious textile and pesticide contaminants from wastewater. Structural and morphological changes induced upon composite formation were monitored using FT-IR, Powder XRD, BET, HRTEM and EDX spectroscopic studies. A feasible mechanism to explain the stabilization of CdS by SCNF matrix was explained through this exploration. Distinct adsorption experiments at acidic and basic pH proved the prominent effect of pH on the adsorption behavior of the nanocomposites. Other crucial parameters of adsorption such as the effect of contact time, adsorbent dosage, concentration of the pollutants, isotherm and kinetic models were also comprehensively investigated. CdS@10%SCNF nanocomposite showed maximum adsorption capacity for all the pollutants. Regeneration and reuse experiments demonstrated outstanding stability of the nanocomposites.