Preparation and characterization of Fe3O4/graphene quantum dots nanocomposite as an efficient adsorbent in magnetic solid phase extraction: application to determination of bisphenol A in water samples

Abstract

This study describes the preparation, characterization and application of Fe₃O₄/graphene quantum dots (Fe₃O₄/GQDs) magnetic nanocomposite as a novel adsorbent for magnetic solid phase extraction (MSPE). The Fe₃O₄/GQDs was synthesized by a simple hydrothermal method and the resultant nanocomposite was characterized by X-ray powder diffraction, field emission scanning electron microscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The prepared nanocomposite was used for the preconcentration and determination of bisphenol A (BPA) in drinking water samples using high performance liquid chromatography with ultraviolet detection (HPLC-UV). Under optimal extraction and analytical conditions, the developed method demonstrated a wide dynamic linear range (0.1–300 ng mL⁻¹), good linearity (R² = 0.9958), low detection limit (12.3 pg mL⁻¹) and a high enrichment factor (360). The developed MSPE-HPLC-UV method was successfully applied for the determination of leaked BPA from plastic bottles into drinking water samples after exposing it to sunlight. Satisfactory recoveries showed that the matrices under consideration do not significantly affect the extraction process. The adsorption efficiencies of Fe₃O₄/GQDs, Fe₃O₄/graphene and unmodified magnetic Fe₃O₄ nanoparticles were comparatively studied for the preconcentration and determination of BPA by HPLC-UV. Based on experimental results, Fe₃O₄/GQDs exhibit improved adsorption behaviour because of the unique surface properties of GQDs.