Development of Biomass Derived Adsorbents using Wood Apple Pulp for the Removal of Contaminants

This study involves the development of biomass derived adsorbents from wood apple pulp for water and wastewater treatment. This biomass was modified by the addition of commercially available activated charcoal and copper nanoparticles. Adsorbent characterization was performed for understanding the surface morphology and surface area. These new adsorbents were further evaluated for their potentiality in removing dyes and API pollutants (Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient). All the adsorbents were highly effective in the removal of these contaminants, 96% of Malachite Green and 72% of Congo Red was removed with a high adsorption capacity of 45 mg/g. API pollutant (Ciprofloxacin) removal showed 52% removal, which is greater when compared to several modified adsorbents. Adsorption equilibrium models (Langmuir and Freundlich) and kinetic models (pseudo first order and pseudo second order) were evaluated for fit of the experimental data. In general, the isotherm studies indicated multilayer adsorption.