Asian Journal of Microbiology, Biotechnology & Environmental Sciences Paper

Vol 14, Issue 4, 2012; Page No.(535-539 )

EVALUATION OF COPPER(II) AND NICKEL(II) BIOSORPTION BY SEWAGE SLUDGE UNDER OPTIMIZED CONDITIONS

AHMAD ASHFAQ AND R.K. PATHAK

Abstract

The equilibrium, kinetics and thermodynamics have been studied for the removal of Cu(II) and Ni(II) ions from dilute aqueous solutions onto sewage sludge. The optimum biosorption conditions for pH [5.0 for Cu(II) and 1.0 for Ni(II)], temperature and biomass concentration were found at 24oC and 1.0 mg/L respectively. The Freundlich and Langmuir sorption models were used for the mathematical description of biosorption equilibrium and isotherm constants were evaluated. The maximum biosorption capacity for Cu(II) and Ni(II) ions were obtained as 37.48 mg and 29.74 mg per gram of the biosorbent applied. The kinetic studies showed that the sorption rates could be described well by Pseudo-second-order model in comparison to Pseudo-first-order model. This showed the spontaneous and endothermic nature of biosorption process. The results indicated that sewage sludge was an effective and economical biosorbent for the removal of both heavy metal ions.

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