Abstract
The ability of <i>Delonix regia</i> (Flamboyant) flower to remove Co(II), Cu(II) and Pb(II) ions from aqueous solutions through biosorption was investigated in multimetal batch experiments at 32ºC. The metal ions concentration was determined by atomic absorption spectroscopic (AAS) method. The influence of pH, Contact time, adsorbent dosage and initial metal ion concentration were investigated. The study revealed that maximum removal of Co(II), Cu(II) Pb(II) ion from aqueous solution occurred at pH of 5. The contact time for the adsorption process was found to be at 60 minutes. The amount of metal ions adsorbed increases with increase in adsorbent dosage and initial metal ion concentration. The biosorption of Pb(II) and Co(II) ions exhibited pseudo-second-order kinetics models whereas Cu(II) ion followed for both pseudo first order and second order kinetics model. This study shows that <i>Delonix regia </i>flower is a viable agricultural waste for the removal of Co(II), Pb(II) and Cu(II) ions from aqueous solution.
Highlights
The contamination of water by toxic heavy metals is a worldwide problem [1]
The role of hydrogen ion was investigated at different pH and so the amount of metal ions removed was determined and results for the adsorption of Co(II), Pb(II) and Cu(II) ions is shown in the figure 1 above
The plausible reason for the better adsorption observed at pH 5 and pH 6 may be attributed to the larger number of H+ ions present, which in turn neutralize the negatively charged adsorbent surface, thereby reducing hindrance to the diffusion of organics at higher pH
Summary
The contamination of water by toxic heavy metals is a worldwide problem [1]. This fear has been heightened in recent times due to advancement in technology coupled with increasing industrial activities, both contributed to release of heavy metals into the environment [1,2,3]. Lead, copper, cadmium are present in the environment. They do not degrade or destroy and so, pollute the environment [4]. Uncontrollable discharge of these heavy metals to the environment can be detrimental to humans, animals and plants [5]. These heavy metal ions cause major effects like headache, dizziness, nausea and vomiting, chest pain, tightness of chest, dry cough, shortness of breathe, rapid respiration, nephritis and extreme weakness when their concentration is above the recommended limit [6]
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