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The use of graphene oxide membranes for the softening of hard water

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Abstract

Strong chemical interactions between the oxygen-containing functional groups on graphene oxide (GO) sheets and the ions of divalent metals were exploited for the softening of hard water. GO membranes were prepared and evaluated for their ability to absorb Ca2+ and Mg2+ ions. These GO membranes can effectively absorb Ca2+ ions from hard water; a 1 mg GO membrane can remove as much as 0.05 mg Ca2+ ions. These GO membranes can be regenerated and used repeatedly.

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Correspondence to Yi Huang or YongSheng Chen.

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Liang, J., Huang, Y., Zhang, F. et al. The use of graphene oxide membranes for the softening of hard water. Sci. China Technol. Sci. 57, 284–287 (2014). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11431-014-5467-7

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11431-014-5467-7

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