Abstract
The removal of Pb(II) and Cu(II) ions by using marine red macroalgae (Gracilaria changii) as a biosorbent material was evaluated through the batch equilibrium technique. The effect of solution pH on the removal of metal ions was investigated within the range of 2–7. The response surface methodology (RSM) technique involving central composite design (CCD) was utilised to optimise the three main sorption parameters, namely initial metal ion concentration, contact time, and biosorbent dosage, to achieve maximum ion removal. The models’ adequacy of response was verified by ANOVA. The optimum conditions for removal of Pb(II) and Cu(II) were as follows: pH values of 4.5 and 5, initial concentrations of 40 mg/L, contact times of 115 and 45 min, and biosorbent dosage of 1 g/L, at which the maximum removal percentages were 96.3% and 44.77%, respectively. The results of the adsorption isotherm study showed that the data fitted well with the Langmuir’s model for Pb(II) and Cu(II). The results of the adsorption kinetic study showed that the data fitted well with the pseudo-second order model for Pb(II) and Cu(II). In conclusion, red alga biomass exhibits great potential as an efficient low-cost sorbent for removal of metal ions.
Highlights
Heavy metal-containing water is a severe pollution issue that considerably affects the environment and animal and human health
This study aims to examine and optimise the performance of red macroalgae for the adsorption of Pb(II) and Cu(II) from aqueous solution through batch equilibrium procedure and response surface methodology (RSM)
The present study investigated the effects of four different adsorption factors, namely solution pH, initial metal ion, contact time, and biosorbent dosage, on removal of Pb(II) and Cu(II) ions
Summary
Heavy metal-containing water is a severe pollution issue that considerably affects the environment and animal and human health. Heavy metals can accumulate in the food chain and cause major human health problems if not managed and treated properly. Essential heavy metals including Cu, Fe, Co, and Zn are relatively less toxic at low concentration levels. They can act as cofactors in different biochemical and physiological functions in living organisms; they become toxic if they exceed the threshold level [2]. Non-essential heavy metals including Pb, Cd, Hg, and As are highly toxic and can be lethal even at low concentrations
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