Sorption of Pb2+, Cu2+ and Zn2+ from Aqueous Solution Using a Blended Membrane of Immobilized Karkashi (Sesame Leaves) and Sodium Alginate

Abstract

Sorption techniques are widely used to remove heavy metal ions from large volume of aqueous solutions, this plays a vital role in controlling environmental pollution. Herein, the sorption of Pb2+, Cu2+ and Zn2+ with blended membrane of sodium alginate (Na-Alg) and immobilized karkashi leaves (IKAL) from aqueous solution was investigated at optimum conditions for effectiveness. Sorption capacities of the membrane for Pb2+, Cu2+ and Zn2+ were found to be 86.80, 40.60 and 39.55% respectively. The sorption behavior with respect to initial pH, ionic strength, temperature, contact time and initial metal ion concentration was investigated for optimum sorption conditions. Maximum sorption was found to occur at pH 3.0 for all the metal ions studied. Results showed that metallic ion uptake by the blended membrane declined with increase in ionic strength. This trend was also observed at an increased temperature of 50ºC for Pb2+, Cu2+ and 40ºC for Zn2+. Increase in initial metal ion concentration led to increase in metal ion uptake. At the end of the chemical remediation, the blended membrane was found to be effective to some extent, with the reaction being exothermic.