A NOVEL APPROACH OF USING BAMBOO ROOT CELLULOSE: AN ALTERNATIVE FOR IRON(II) REMOVAL FROM WASTEWATER

Abstract

A novel approach was taken using the bamboo root transformed into activated cellulose, implying dilute nitric acid as the agent activator. The activated bio-sorbent was applied for Iron(II) (Fe(II)) adsorption in batch mode. Then, biosorbent characterization was established using infrared spectroscopy and a scanning electron microscope (SEM). The effect of acid variation, iodine number, contact time, particle size, temperature, and concentration on the Fe(II) adsorption was determined in the batch method. The Freundlich and Langmuir isotherm were analyzed for determining the isotherm of adsorption. The Langmuir model of adsorption is the most suitable for illustrating Fe(II) adsorption. The optimum adsorption capacity occurred at the bio-sorbent particle size of 50 µm, contact time of 300 minutes, a temperature of 50˚C, a pH of 5, and 150 ppm. The bamboo roots have been applied to remove Fe(II) from wastewater, and the recovery% shows 100%. Comparative studies were analyzed with some bio-sorbents for further development. It is hoped that this novel alternative can be applied as bamboo is abundant in Indonesia and many countries in Asia regions.