Batch Biosorption Studies for the Removal of Chromium

Batch sorption experiments were carried out using a novel adsorbent, Acid treated Pongamia Leaf Powder (APLP) and Acid treated Neem Leaf Powder (ANLP), for the removal of Chromium(VI) from aqueous solutions. Potential of APLP and ANLP for adsorption of chromium from aqueous solution was found to be excellent. Effects of process parameters pH, contact time and adsorbent capacity were studied. Langmuir model represent the experimental data well. Maximum dye uptake was found indicating that APLP and ANLP can be used as an excellent low-cost adsorbent. Comparison of adsorption capacity of APLP and ANLP for chromium clearly indicates that the capacity of APLP for adsorption of chromium is quite high than ANLP. It can be expected that APLP and ANLP would have similar capacities for dyes with similar molecular weight, structure and/or ionic load. Thus, the naturally defoliated the Pongamia and Neem leaf powders a low-cost natural resource, can be effectively used to remove pollutants from effluents.