Removal of Cu (II) from industrial wastewaters through locally-produced adsorbent prepared from orange peel

Abstract

Heavy metal ion contamination is a commonality in industries such as mining, electroplating, and metal processing. By increased discharge of copper contaminated water, toxic waste due to Cu (II) has become a severe ecological dilemma globally. Adsorption is considered one of the more practicable techniques suggested for heavy metal removal because of its sensitivity, ease of operation and reproducibility alongside economic benefits such as effectiveness. This study examined the adsorption characteristics of an adsorbent prepared from orange peel (OP) for copper (II) in solutions that were aqueous. In evaluating the useful benefit of the sorbent material, changes in solution pH, initial Cu (II) concentration, adsorbent dose, and contact time on the adsorption process were also examined. Additionally, adsorption equilibrium isotherm as well as adsorption kinetics were explored to understand adsorption processes.

Keywords

• agricultural wastes
• wastewater
• heavy metals
• adsorbent
• orange peel