ISSN print edition: 0366-6352 ISSN electronic edition: 1336-9075 Registr. No.: MK SR 9/7 Published monthly

Prussian Blue analogues as a platform for lead(II) and cadmium(II) removal from water by an electrochemical approach

Alvaro Lagar-Sosa, Próspero Acevedo-Peña, and Edilso Reguera

Laboratorio Nacional de Conversión y Almacenamiento de Energía, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, CICATA Legaria, Mexico City, Mexico

E-mail: prosperoster@gmail.com

Received: 30 December 2025  Accepted: 9 March 2026

Abstract:

Efficient water treatment is a global concern, particularly in regions like Mexico, which face contamination with heavy metal ions. This study focuses on the electrochemical separation of lead (Pb²⁺) and cadmium (Cd²⁺) ions using a set of Prussian Blue analogues (PBAs)—cobalt(II), nickel(II), and copper(II) hexacyanoferrates. Electrochemical methods offer promising alternatives, particularly when utilizing materials that achieve faradaic deionization properties. The PBAs were synthesized and characterized by structural and spectroscopic techniques. Electrodes were prepared by forming a conductive paste with the PBAs, and their electrochemical stability was assessed through cyclic voltammetry. The electrochemical assays revealed a superior electrochemical performance in cobalt(II) hexacyanoferrate (CoHCF) in removing Pb²⁺ (32.8 mg/g) and Cd²⁺ (54.2 mg/g) ions. The insertion mechanisms involving the reduction of Fe^III were elucidated through spectroscopic measurements. The potential existence of Co^III was considered beneficial for ion removal processes. This study provides valuable insights into the practical applications of Prussian Blue analogues for water remediation.

Keywords: Prussian Blue analogues; Electrochemical removal; Water remediation; Heavy metal pollution

Full paper is available at www.springerlink.com.

DOI: 10.1007/s11696-026-04792-8

Chemical Papers 80 (6) 6669–6684 (2026)