Organic Pollution Removal from TNT Red Water Using Cu-Impregnated Activated Coke

Abstract

The novel adsorbent Cu-impregnated activated coke (CAC) has been successfully prepared using a Cu(NO3)2 solution impregnated activated coke (AC). The optimum preparation conditions of CAC are the concentration of Cu(NO3)2 of 0.1 mol/L, pH of 6, loading time of 4 h, and loading temperature of 333 K. The characterizations of CAC are analyzed by N2 adsorption, X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscope, and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. Also the adsorption behavior of CAC to organic materials in TNT red water is studied. The adsorption data are simulated by Freundlich isotherm and Langmuir isotherm. Below 333 K Freundlich isotherm is more suitable, while Langmuir isotherm model is more fitted when the temperature is higher than 333 K. The adsorption kinetics follows a pseudo second-order model, and thermodynamic analysis indicates an endothermic and spontaneous adsorption processes, and the process appears to be controlled by the chemisorption process. Chemical oxygen demand of 85.34 % can be removed as CAC prepared under optimized conditions is used as absorbent. In summary, CAC has excellent absorption characteristics and can be used in the removal of organic materials from TNT red water.