Modification of silica nanoparticles with 1-hydroxy-2-acetonaphthone as a novel composite for the efficient removal of Ni(II), Cu(II), Zn(II), and Hg(II) ions from aqueous media

Distinctive adsorption equilibria and kinetic models are of extensive use in explaining the biosorption of heavy metals, denoting the need to highlight and summarize their essential issues, which is the main purpose of this paper. As a general trend, up until now, most studies on the biosorption of heavy metal ions by miscellaneous biosorbent types have been directed toward the uptake of single metal in preference to multicomponent systems. In particular, Langmuir and Freundlich models are the most common isotherms for correlating biosorption experimental data though other isotherms, which were initially established for gas phase applications, can also be extended onto biosorption system. In kinetic modeling, the pseudo-first and -second order equations are considered as the most celebrated models.

The marine algae Sargassum sp., Padina sp., Ulva sp., and Gracillaria sp., harvested locally, were investigated for their biosorption performance in the removal of lead, copper, cadmium, zinc, and nickel from dilute aqueous solutions. It was found that the biosorption capacities were significantly affected by solution pH, with higher pH favoring higher metal-ion removal. Kinetic and isotherm experiments were carried out at the optimal pH: at pH 5.0 for lead and copper, and at pH 5.5 for cadmium, zinc, and nickel. The metal removal rates were rapid, with 90% of the total adsorption taking place within 60 min. Sargassum sp. and Padina sp. showed the highest potential for the sorption of the metal ions, with the maximum uptake capacities ranging from 0.61 to 1.16 mmol/g for Sargassum sp. and 0.63 to 1.25 mmol/g for Padina sp. The general affinity sequence for Padina sp. was Pb>Cu>Cd>Zn>Ni, while that for Sargassum sp. was Pb>Zn>Cd>Cu>Ni. XPS and FTIR analysis of Sargassum sp. and Padina sp. revealed the chelating character of the ion coordination to carboxyl groups. It was confirmed that carboxyl, ether, alcoholic, and amino groups are responsible for the binding of the metal ions.