Toxic Hexavalent Chromium Removal from Aqueous Matrices Using Passive Waste Biomass: Kinetics and Adsorption Isotherm Models Itankar Nilisha1, Malge Shilpa1, Patil Yogesh2 1Assistant Professor, Symbiosis Institute of Technology, Symbiosis International University, Lavale, Pune, India 2Professor, Symbiosis Centre for Research and Innovation, Symbiosis International University, Lavale, Pune, India Online published on 29 December, 2017. Abstract Purpose Hexavalent chromium is well known for its toxicity to all forms of living cells and therefore its removal from industrial waste matrices is the key. The main purpose of this study was-(i) to investigate the potential of some low-cost agricultural waste biomaterials for its efficacy to remove toxic hexavalent chromium from industrial effluents; and (ii) to study the kinetics and adsorption models. Design/methodology/approach Biomass collected from different sources was processed in laboratory to obtain sorbents for Cr(VI) sorption studies. Batch mode studies were performed to analyze the adsorption capacity and adsorption models like Langmuir, Freundlich and Tempkin were investigated from suitability aspects. Findings Among tested biomaterials, wood apple shell powder (WASP) and coconut shell powder biomass were found to be highly efficient biosorbent for removal of Cr(VI) from wastewater. Optimal pH for maximum sorption was at acidic pH. Kinetics showed that the time taken for maximum sorption was 60 min. Loading capacity of WASP was found to be higher than that of conventional activated charcoal. Sorption data obtained at various initial concentrations could be well fitted in the different adsorption models used and obeyed the principles underlying it. Originality/Value The research focuses attention on the use of waste agricultural biomass for the removal of non-renewable waste metal resource from wastewaters. Top Keywords Biosorption, Hexavalent chromium, Low-cost biomass, Wood Apple Shell Powder. Top |