Abstract
ABSTRACT Low molecular weight algal organic matter (AOM), as a frequent water contaminant with poor coagulation efficiency, adversely affects the quality of produced water and serves as a source of potentially carcinogenic disinfection by-products. AOM removal from water is inevitable to eliminate the negative health and environmental impacts. This research evaluates the removal of arginine, phenylalanine and aspartic acid, which are amino acids abundant in AOM. Adsorption experiments were performed at 10, 18 and 25 °C and pH 5, 7 and 9 using two different activated carbons (FTL, PIC). Amino acids showed endothermic adsorption behaviour, with a higher removal at higher temperature. Higher temperature increased the diffusion of amino acid molecules, reduced the solution viscosity, or enhanced the hydrophobic interactions contributing to adsorption. The effect of temperature manifested differently during experiments depending on the chemical nature of the amino acids, the pH value and the surface properties of the carbon. Phenylalanine isotherms showed specific waves (Langmuir type 4). pH had a greater effect on arginine adsorption than did temperature. Aspartic acid isotherms exhibited a decrease in adsorption at higher pH values and higher temperatures. The principal mechanisms involved in amino acid adsorption were hydrophobic interactions, electrostatic interactions or hydrogen bonds.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
