Design and Synthesis of a Multifunctional Hybrid Pigment via the Immobilization of Alizarin Red S on Mesoporous Silica for the Simultaneous Detection and Sequestration of Toxic Heavy Metal Ions

Articles in Press

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Department of Nanomaterials and Nanocoatings, Institute for Color Science and Technology

2 Department of Organic Colorants, Institute for Color Science and Technology, Tehran

3 - Department of Environmental Research, Institute for Color Science and Technology

Abstract

Heavy metal contamination in aqueous media poses significant risks to environmental and human health. Effective removal of these contaminants from water sources is crucial to safeguard ecosystems, ensure safe drinking water, and prevent bioaccumulation in food chains. This study focused on the synthesis of a hybrid pigment by combining an organic and an inorganic component. The resulting pigments exhibited the capacity to absorb metal ions. Notably, for the first time, a Silica-Alizarin Red S hybrid pigment (SC-ARS) was developed using porous silica powder. This hybrid pigment was evaluated for its effectiveness in removing heavy metals, including lead (Pb(II)), copper (Cu(II)), and cadmium (Cd(II)), from aqueous media. The synthesis process comprised three key steps: The initial step involved synthesizing the mineral component using the Stöber method and characterizing its surface properties and morphology. The second step focused on functionalizing the material to develop the SC-ARS hybrid pigment and on optimizing Alizarin Red S binding to the silica substrate. Finally, a thorough investigation was conducted to identify the optimal conditions for Alizarin Red S adsorption. The results indicated that the maximum adsorption capacity was achieved at 298 K, pH 5, an initial dye concentration of 5 g/L, 0.04 g of adsorbent, and a contact time of 10 minutes. The SC-ARS pigment exhibited notable removal efficiencies for heavy metal ions, achieving 96% removal for Cu(II), 84% for Cd(II), and 99% for Pb(II) from aqueous solutions, as confirmed by ICP analysis. This outcome emphasizes its potential as an effective adsorbent for environmental applications.

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Main Subjects

Progress in Color, Colorants and Coatings

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 27 April 2026

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