Comparison of Biosorbents and Ion-Exchanger Efficiency for Copper Ions Removal

Abstract

Copper ions removal by different sorbents from model aqueous solutions was investigated. The decrease of copper ions after addition of biosorbents prepared from mosses Sphagnum sp., Polytrichum commune and a green alga Parachlorella kessleri was compared to copper removal by commercial cationic exchanger Amberlite IR 120. The maximum sorption capacity obtained was 7.4 mg.g -1 (96.1%) and 71 mg.g -1 (95.3%) for ion-exchanger at a solution with concentration of copper ions 16 mg.l -1 and 160 mg.l -1, respectively. A significant copper (II) uptake was achieved within 10 min after addition of biomass Parachlorella kessleri and Shpagnum sp. Their maximal uptake efficiency 92.8% and 85.4%, respectively is comparable to efficiency of ion-exchanger at low copper (II) concentration in solutions. However, at higher copper concentration ion-exchanger was more efficient in copper removal. The advantage of biomass is high biosorption capacity, high efficiency achieved very quickly and cost-effectiveness especially for solutions with low metal concentration (under 100 mg.l -1). These parameters determine biomass as economical alternatives for metal removal from solution during final, polishing step or drinking water preparation.