Progress in the Preparation of Chitosan/graphene Oxide Composites and their Adsorption and Separation Properties for Heavy Metals

Organic-inorganic composite materials and their novel multi-component composites have attracted immense attention in heavy metal separation. Chitosan/graphene oxide (CS/GO) composites combine the advantages of both organic phase chitosan (CS) and inorganic phase graphene oxide (GO), which can be used for the adsorption of heavy metals. Emerging technologies such as freeze-drying, ultrasound assistance, and electrospinning have facilitated the synthesis of CS/GO-based composite materials. Among them, CS/GO aerogels significantly enhance the adsorption capacity for heavy metals. Materials with different characteristics, including magnetic iron-modified materials and metal-organic frameworks, can make CS/GO composites more functional. This article overviewed the emerging preparation methods of CS/GO composites and discussed their progress in the adsorption of heavy metals.