Preparation and evaluation adsorption capacity of cellulose xanthate of sugarcane bagasse for removal heavy metal ion from aqueous solutions

Abstract

The discharge of heavy metals from industrial effluents into aquatic system in surrounding area of Lampung bay become a serious problem today. The data shows that the concentrations of heavy metals in this area are above allowable limits for the discharge of toxic heavy metals in the aquatic systems. The most common of heavy metal pollutant is divalent metal ions. Cellulose xanthate is one of the selective adsorbent to solve this problem, since xanthate contains two negative sulfur atoms that is capable to catch divalent metal ions. Preparation of cellulose xanthate was conducted by reacting carbon disulfide (CS2) and cellulose from sugarcane bagasse. The morphological characteristics of cellulose xanthate were visualized via Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) and the presence of sulfur groups on sugarcane bagasse xanthate were identified by FTIR spectroscopic study. The degree of substitution (DS), degree of polymerization (DP), and adsorption capacities of cellulose xanthate for Cu2+ and Pb2+ metal were studied. The results of study reveals that the maximum adsorption capacities of Cu2+ and Pb2+ metal on cellulose xanthate are 54.226 mg Cu2+/g, and 51.776 mg Pb2+/g, respectively. This study reveals that cellulose xanthate could be a solution to reduce environmental pollution caused by industrial wastewater.