LAUSR

Abstract Through reverse emulsion method and ion crosslinking along with coprecipitation, we develop a novel kind of magnetic composite alginate/PVA hydrogel microspheres with interpenetrating network (IPN) under mild conditions. Compared with traditional magnetic alginate hydrogels, coupling of polyvinyl alcohol endow the magnetic alginate hydrogels with IPN structure and corresponding excellent stability. Furthermore, the magnetic alginate/PVA hydrogel microspheres show good selective adsorption for hydrophilic aromatic compounds in aqueous solution. Especially, based on the pH sensitivity of alginate, the as-synthesized magnetic alginate/PVA hydrogel microspheres display different selective adsorption properties for aromatic compounds with change of pH over a wide range, which is conducive to application under different environmental conditions for the hydrogel material. This research provides a simple strategy for large-scale preparation of stable magnetic hydrogel microspheres, and has long-term application potential in water environmental treatment.