Batch and dynamic sorption of Ni(II) ions by activated carbon based on a native lignocellulosic precursor

D. NABARLATZ; J. P. DE CELIS; P. R. BONELLI; A. L. CUKIERMAN

Nancy, Francia

Congreso; Lignocarb Conference; 2007

ALFA EUROPEAID CO-OPERATION OFFICE, NANCY-UNIVERSITÉ, ENSTIB

Removal of Ni(II) ions from dilute aqueous solutions, as model of water polluted with metal concentration, was investigated by using an activated carbon lab-made from a native wood species in batch and continuous operation modes. For the sake of comparison, a commercial activated carbon was also employed. Batch experiments were carried out in order to determine the sorption kinetics and equilibrium isotherms. Conventional modeling of the latter indicated that the maximum metal adsorption capacity for the native precursor-based carbon was similar to that estimated for the commercial sample. Breakthrough curves were determined in a packed-bed up-flow column by varying the metal concentration in the feed, bed height and flow rate. As inferred from comparison of the breakthrough curves obtained from both carbons under identical operating conditions, the native precursor-derived activated carbon showed a better performance than the commercial sample, leading to prolong the service time of the column. Besides as shown in Figure 1 it was found that proper down-flow regeneration of exhausted bed made up of native precursor-derived activated carbon enabled efficient reuse in a second cycle.