Abstract
ABSTRACT Selenium is found in natural waters of developing countries. The present study refers to Se (IV) adsorption onto an Ecuadorian natural zeolite, activated at 225°C. Its physicochemical characterization included particle size analysis, XRD, SEM-EDX, and FTIR. After selenium adsorption, the FTIR spectra denoted the presence of moved bands and new peaks, probably corresponding to new metal bond vibrations. Batch experiments were carried out at 26°C, for 2 h, at adsorbate doses within 0.01–50 mg L−1, bringing about a removal percentage in the range of 57−90%. Eventually, Se (IV) adsorption was performed at a pH of 7.5, resembling realistic well-water matrix conditions. Zeolite accomplished a maximum Se adsorption capacity of 53 mg g−1 zeolite, corresponding to roughly 90% of Se removal. The results obtained upon constant flow mode were analyzed with various kinetic models, appearing Thomas and BDST models to fit better. The highest Se removal percentage on typical well waters leaves a Se value lower than the permissible levels. Thus, natural zeolites offer an economic and competitive alternative for Se (IV) removal, especially from groundwater and industrial wastewater in developing countries.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.