Solvothermal synthesis of sugarcane bagasse-bentonite-magnetite nanocomposite for efficient Cr(VI) removal from electroplating wastewater: Kinetics and isotherm investigations

Abstract

Hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) is a toxic heavy metal released from electroplating industrial processes and poses a significant threat to human health and the environment due to its high solubility and carcinogenicity. Effective removal of Cr(VI) from wastewater is crucial to mitigate its adverse effects. This study explores the potential of a novel sugarcane bagasse-bentonite magnetite nanocomposite, synthesized via the solvothermal method, for efficient Cr(VI) adsorption. The resulting sugarcane bagasse-bentonite magnetite nanocomposite was characterized and evaluated for its Cr(VI) removal efficiency from electroplating wastewater. FTIR analysis confirmed the presence of characteristic functional groups in the nanocomposite, while PSA revealed an average particle size of 262 nm. SEM imaging further validated the porous structure of the material. Adsorption kinetics followed the Avrami model, reaching equilibrium at 270 minutes with a capacity of 11.40 mg/g. The Langmuir isotherm model best described the adsorption process, with a maximum capacity of 7.15 mg/g. Removal efficiency decreased with increasing initial Cr(VI) concentration, highlighting the impact of available adsorption sites. This study demonstrates the potential of sugarcane bagasse-bentonite magnetite nanocomposite as an effective and sustainable adsorbent for Cr(VI) removal from wastewater.

Keywords

• Adsorption
• Bentonite
• Heavy metal
• Magnetite
• Nanocomposite
• Sugarcane bagasse