Batch Experiment Studies on Bio-Sorption of Pb(II) and Cu(II) Metal Ions using Activated Carbon from Prosopis Juliflora Bark and Leaves

Abstract

Different heavy metals such as Lead (Pb), Cadmium (Cd), Copper (Cu), Chromium (Cr), Mercury (Hg), Zinc (Zn) and Arsenic (As) are the core elements used as color pigments in textile industries. This is widely effecting the aquatic environment causing high increase of metallic substances in water resources, which is a threat for the environment and human health. Among different processes adsorption by activated carbon is an efficient process to remove heavy metals from waste water. Activated carbon at the same time has become exorbitant.  Research is being done on pioneering different low cost adsorbents from different agricultural wastes that can be used compellingly to remove different heavy metals from textile waste water.  My work discuss about the efficiency of removing heavy metals such as copper and lead by using activated carbon from Prosopis Juliflora bark and leaves. Prosopis Juliflora is widely known for the extensive property of absorbing water and certain heavy metals.  Activated carbon was formed from Prosopis juliflora bark and Prosopis Juliflora leaves through Physical and chemical treatment separately. Stock solution for lead and copper was formulated with proper care in the lab. Batchwise experiments were conducted to study Effect of adsorption by varying adsorbent dosage, pH and contact time of the adsorbent with the solution. It was concluded that capacity of adsorption of the modified activated carbon from Prosopis Juliflora bark and leaves for heavy metals such as copper and lead was more efficient. This activated carbon can be used as a promising bio-adsorbent for removing Heavy metals from Textile effluent.

Keywords: Activated carbon, Adsorption, Prosopis Juliflora leaves and Bark, Heavy metals