Biosorption of Cu2+ and Pb2+ using sophora alopecuroides residue

Abstract

Sophora alopecuroides residue (SAP), a kind of traditional Chinese herbal medicine residue, was developed in an alternative biosorbent for the removal Cu2+ and Pb2+ in simulated wastewater. The morphology and surface texture of SAP were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, which showed a loose and porous structure. The biosorption experiments of Cu2+ and Pb2+ onto SAP were investigated by using batch techniques. High biosorption percentage appeared at pH values of 4.5-6.0. The experimental data followed the second-order kinetic model well. Equilibrium fit with the Langmuir isotherm model well. The maximum biosorption capacity of an adsorbent at 25 °C was respectively 60.6 mg/g Cu2+ and 128.1 mg/g Pb2+. The findings of the present study show that SAP is an attractive and effective biosorbent for Cu2+ and Pb2+.