Re-generable and re-synthesisable micro-structured MIL-53 Rachig Rings for ibuprofen removal

Water-stable metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) are attractive adsorbent materials for water purification. However, for practical applications, they must be structured into beads, granules, pellets, etc. which would impair their adsorption performances. This study demonstrates the feasibility in developing a water-stable MIL-53 onto a micro-structured alumina Raschig Ring (Al-RR) served not only as an aluminium metal source, but also as a support. Our results showed that a MIL-53 layer covers the entire surface of the Al-RR. The unique structure of the Al-RR allows easy access of water pollutants, hence achieving high adsorption efficiencies with its estimated equilibrium adsorption capacity between 222 and 300 mg g−1. In addition, the synthesised MIL-53 Raschig Ring (MIL-53-RR) can be regenerated or re-synthesised without any significant reduction in the adsorption performances, indicating the potential for possible commercialisation of the MIL-53-RR for water purifications such as ibuprofen removal from water.