Application of non-fluorescent carbon particles as scavengers for heavy metal ions: A waste utilisation approach

<p>In the preparation of fluorescent carbon nanoparticles, formation of non-fluorescent carbon particles (CPs) as waste matter is indispensible. This work is introducing CPs as adsorbents for some toxic metal ions in aqueous medium. CPs were characterised and their particle size, surface area, porosity, morphology etc. were compared with their parent material (charcoal). The effects of the initial metal ion concentration, contact time and pH on adsorption were undertaken. Adsorption data were evaluated for Langmuir and Freundlich isotherm models. The adsorption capacities (mg/g) of Ni²⁺, Pb²⁺, Zn²⁺, Co^2+, Cd²⁺ and Cu²⁺ were 85, 76, 75, 67, 58 and 46, respectively.</p

An adsorption study of Sr²⁺ from saline sources by coconut shell charcoal

<p>The adsorption potential of charcoal for the removal of heavy metal ions is well documented in the literature. However, its exploration for uptake of technologically valuable metal ions such as Sr²⁺ is poorly known. In this work, the batch adsorption study of Sr²⁺ ion from aqueous solution as well as from saline matrix (>3% of NaCl) onto charcoal has been carried out. The experiments were conducted with two charcoals, i.e., our prepared charcoal (coconut shell charcoal) and commercial charcoal. Strontium adsorption has been investigated as a function of its initial concentration, contact time, and varied mass of adsorbent. Equilibrium adsorption data were evaluated for Langmuir and Freundlich isotherm models. The adsorption capacities (mg/g) of Sr²⁺ present in the salt matrix onto coconut shell charcoal and commercial charcoal was found to be 18.4 and 22.2, respectively. Uptake of Sr²⁺ from subsoil brine onto coconut shell charcoal has been successfully demonstrated in this work.</p