Molecularly Imprinted Poly(2-(3-(amino)propyl)-2-oxazoline) for the Selective Removal of Ibuprofen from Aqueous Solutions

Pharmaceuticals’ pervasive contamination of aquatic ecosystems underscores the urgent need for efficacious and innovative remediation strategies. This study introduces a highly selective and efficient approach for recovering Ibuprofen using molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs). The cross-linked polymer was synthesized by reacting poly(2-oxazoline) with amino side chains and hexamethylene diisocyanate in the presence of Ibuprofen. Key parameters affecting Ibuprofen adsorption, including initial concentration, contact time, and MIP reusability, were thoroughly examined. The developed MIP exhibits a remarkable adsorption capacity, achieving a maximum Ibuprofen binding capacity of 92 mg g−1 and significantly outperforming the nonimprinted polymer’s 30 mg g−1. Moreover, kinetic studies reveal a rapid adsorption process predominantly following pseudo-first-order kinetics, indicating chemisorption as the primary mechanism. The MIPs demonstrate excellent reusability and maintain their efficacy in real-world scenarios, as evidenced by the successful recovery of Ibuprofen from lake water samples with significant removal percentages, instilling confidence in its potential application