Indian Journal of Science and Technology

Abstract

Background: The biosorption technology has been recognized as an attractive alternative for heavy metal ions uptake due to its several advantages as low cost and environmental friendly. Objectives: In this work, a biosorbent was synthesized from African oil palm bagasse biomass and alumina nanoparticles in order to use it for removing cadmium, nickel and chromium from aqueous solution. Methods/Analysis: The synthesis of Al2 O3 was performed according to sol-gel methodology. The nanoparticles were loaded into biomass using an organic solvent. The resulting material was characterized by FT-IR, SEM and EDX analyses. The point of zero charges as well as ultimate analysis were also carried out for biomass. Findings: The FT-IR analysis revealed absorption bands characteristic of lignocellulosic biomass attributed to carboxyl, hydroxyl and amides functional groups. The presence of O-Al-O and Al-C=O suggested the successful synthesis of biosorbent. The morphology was identified as porous which enhances adsorption process. The EDX analysis confirms that carbon is the major constituent of biosorbent, similar to the results of ultimate analysis of African oil palm bagasse. In addition, removal yield values for cadmium, nickel and chromium of 92.02, 87.06 and 4%, respectively, were achieved at pH=6. Novelty/Improvement: This biosorbent exhibited excellent adsorption properties and could be used efficiently for removing cadmium and nickel water pollutants. 

Keywords: Biosorption, Heavy Metals, Removal Yields, Uptake