Lithium Adsorption Using Graphene Oxide: Modeling, Regeneration, and Mechanistic Insights

Graphene oxide (GO) was synthesized using the Hummers method and evaluated for lithium-ion removal from aqueous solutions. Characterization via X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) confirmed the presence of oxygen-containing functional groups (C–O–C, C=O), which act as active adsorption sites. BET analysis revealed a surface area of 232 m²/g and a pore volume of 0.4 cm³/g, indicating its high porosity. Lithium adsorption was tested using synthetic Li-doped solutions under controlled conditions. Kinetics and equilibrium studies demonstrated that the process followed the pseudo-second-order model and the Redlich–Peterson isotherm, achieving an optimum lithium adsorption capacity of 179 mg/g. The adsorption efficiency was influenced by factors such as pH and salinity. Regeneration experiments showed that HNO₃ was the most effective desorbing agent, enabling GO to be reused multiple times with a moderate loss of adsorption capacity. These findings highlight GO’s exceptional efficiency in lithium removal and its suitability for wastewater treatment applications. Its recyclability and reusability further support a circular economy, making GO a highly promising material for sustainable lithium recovery and broader environmental remediation efforts.