Removal of Cu(II) from Aqueous Solution Using a Micaceous Mineral of Kenyan Origin

• Published in: Adsorption science & technology Vol. 21; no. 3; pp. 269 - 283
• Main Authors: Attahiru, Stephen, Shiundu, Paul M., Onyari, John M., Mathu, Eliud M.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: London, England SAGE Publications 01.04.2003; Multi Science
• Subjects: Adsorbents; Adsorption; Aqueous solutions; Chemistry; Electrolytes; Exact sciences and technology; General and physical chemistry; Isotherms; Minerals; Solid-liquid interface; Surface physical chemistry; Uptakes; Kenya; Africa; Copper Ions; Mica material; Transition metal Ions; Aqueous solution; Liquid solid adsorption; Water pollution control
• ISSN: 0263-6174; 2048-4038
• DOI: 10.1260/026361703322404412

A micaceous mineral (MicaM) available locally in Kenya was utilized as an inexpensive and effective adsorbent for the removal of Cu2+ ions from aqueous solution. The effects of contact time, pH, temperature, adsorbate and adsorbent concentrations, and the concentration of electrolyte on the removal of Cu2+ ions were studied. Maximum removal of Cu2+ ions occurred over the pH range 4.0–7.0. The adsorption of Cu2+ ions increased with an increase in the dose ratio of mineral to Cu2+ ion concentration and decreased with adsorbent particle size. Isotherm analysis of the adsorption data obtained at 25°C showed that the adsorption of Cu2+ ions on MicaM followed both the Langmuir and Freundlich isotherms. The uptake of Cu2+ ions increased on increasing the pH of the solution from 1.5 to 7.0 as well as on increasing the temperature from 25°C to 60°C. An adsorption capacity of 0.850 g/g was achieved for MicaM towards the Cu2+ ion. This study has demonstrated that locally abundant micaceous mineral can be used as an effective adsorbent for the treatment of waters containing Cu2+ ions without any prior chemical pretreatment.