Novel insights into crystal violet dye adsorption onto various macroalgae: Comparative study, recyclability and overview of chromium (VI) removal

Abstract

In this study, effective biomaterials were prepared from marine macroalgae, namely Fucus spiralis (F.S), Ulva intestinalis (U.I), and Corallina officinalis (C.O). The ability to adsorb the hazardous organic dye crystal violet (CV) was examined, revealing different adsorptive properties for the three algae. The removal of CV dye occurred onto only a homogeneous monolayer for F.S, and both a homogeneous monolayer and a heterogeneous multilayer for U.I and C.O algae. The predicted monolayer capacities at 25 °C were approximately 53 mg/g, 55 mg/g, and 97 mg/g for F.S, C.O, and U.I, respectively. The adsorption of CV dye on all the algae was found to follow a pseudo-second-order rate. Ulva intestinalis algae, as a potential adsorbent of CV dye, were also tested in the adsorption of inorganic substances and demonstrated significant efficiency in the removal of chromium (VI). The findings highlight various adsorption properties and the relevance of macroalgae for wastewater treatment applications.