Biosorption of Cationic Dyes onto Cork Stopper Particles

Abstract

In this study, cork stopper particles were used as a low cost biosorbent to remove the cationic dyes (Methylene blue (MB), Malachite green (MG), and Methyl violet (MV)) from simulated wastewater. Batch sorption experiments of components were conducted as a function of pH, sorbent dosages, contact time, agitation speed, and particle size to optimize the best conditions for maximum removal efficiencies of dyes. The experimental data fitted slightly best to the Langmuir isotherm model than to Freundlich and Temkin isotherm model. The experimental data proved that the adsorption kinetic of MB, MG, and MV could be described by a pseudo-second order model. The results indicate that cork adsorbs dyes efficiently and could be employed as a low-cost alternative in wastewater treatment for the removal of cationic dyes.