Use of Placuna placenta Shells as Green Adsorbent for Pb(II) Ions Sequestration from Aqueous Solution

Abstract

<p>Heavy metal treatment is crucial to mitigate these elements' adverse environmental impacts. Among various remediation methods, adsorption stands out due to its simplicity and high efficiency. In this context, <em>Placuna placenta </em>shell, a biowaste, has been explored for its potential in treating wastewater contaminated with Pb(II) ions. This research was designed to assess the <em>Placuna placenta </em>shell's proficiency in removing Pb(II) ions from aqueous solutions. The study involved two main components: an adsorption test to evaluate the heavy metal removal capability of the <em>Placuna placenta </em>shel and a comprehensive characterization of the shell-based adsorbent. The adsorption experiments were conducted using a batch system, where variables such as pH levels and contact time were meticulously altered to determine their effect on the adsorption efficiency. Concurrently, the adsorbent underwent thorough characterization through Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and X-ray Diffraction (XRD) analysis. The experimental findings indicated that the optimal conditions for maximum Pb(II) ion removal were achieved at a pH of 7 and a contact time of 120 minutes. The FTIR analysis of the adsorbent revealed the presence of calcium carbonate (CaCO<sub>3</sub>), a finding further substantiated by the XRD analysis results. Additionally, SEM imaging provided visual evidence of metal ion deposition on the aggregates of the adsorbent. The study demonstrated that the <em>Placuna placenta </em>shell exhibits promising qualities as an adsorbent for removing heavy metals from contaminated water sources. This finding highlights the potential of utilizing biowaste in environmental remediation and offers a sustainable approach to addressing heavy metal pollution.</p>