Smectite functionalization for targeted zearalenone immobilization: Investigating the key role of surface chemistry and adsorption mechanisms
Source abstract
Abstract
This study investigated the efficiency of modified smectites for zearalenone (ZEN) removal, with a focus on the role of structural characteristics and surface chemistry. Cation exchange and/or calcination yielded poor performance (<10% removal). In contrast, organic functionalization with amphiphilic molecules, significantly enhanced ZEN adsorption by interlayer expansion and increased hydrophobicity. Among the tested modifiers, hexadecyltrimethylammonium bromide (C16) exhibited the highest removal efficiency (∼85%; 0.1 ppm ZEN, 200 mg/L dosage), driven by high organic loading correlated with smectites` cation exchange capacity. The C16-modified smectites had hydrophobic domains containing neutral C16 molecules, which resulted in optimal structural conditions for ZEN uptake. The smectites modified with ethyl lauroyl arginate (LAE®) and cocamidopropyl betaine (CAPB) demonstrated lower ZEN removal (∼70% and ∼60%, respectively), limited by lower organic loading caused by functional groups of modifiers. Vitamin B1-functionalization showed high efficiency for Na-rich smectite (47.6±0.6%) due to efficient Na + to B1 exchange and thus enhanced surface hydrophobization. All modified materials retained high performance under acidic conditions, while alkaline pH reduced efficiency, except for the C16-modified materials. Adsorption kinetics were rapid and independent of the temperature (18°C and 37°C), though the C16 materials showed slower uptake due to colloidal stability issues. Linear adsorption isotherms followed the Freundlich model, supporting a partitioning mechanism. The C16- and B1-modified smectites were resistant to competitive pepsin interactions in simulated gastric fluid, unlike the LAE® and CAPB. These findings emphasize the importance of appropriate functionalization of smectites for ZEN adsorption and support the development of adsorbents for mycotoxin mitigation in animal feed.
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Research context
OpenAlex topics: Mycotoxins in Agriculture and Food · Potato Plant Research · Silicon Effects in Agriculture
SciVX discovery tags are terminology-based. OpenAlex topics are source-provided classifications.
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