Date Seed-Derived Activated Carbon: A Comparative Study on Heavy Metal Removal from Aqueous Solutions
Source abstract
Abstract
The presence of heavy metals in groundwater and wastewater has been a concern for health organizations. This study investigated the effectiveness of activated carbon derived from various natural precursors, including acorns from red oak trees (Quercus rubra), date seeds, and peach seeds, employing the thermal activation method for the removal of heavy metals from aqueous solutions. Batch adsorption tests investigated the effects of sorbent quantity, pH levels, disinfectant presence, and dissolved organic matter (DOM) on the removal efficiency of Pb and Cu. Characterization of the prepared activated carbon was conducted using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Lead removal efficiency diminished at pH 7 relative to pH 3 and 5, but copper exhibited superior removal efficiencies at pH 7 compared to pH 5. The addition of monochloramine at 4 parts per million (ppm) effectively eliminated lead from the solution. A rise in free chlorine concentration from 2 to 4 mg/L led to a reduction in metal removal from water by 20 to 60%. DOM at concentrations of 1 and 6 mg/L reduced metal removal efficacy relative to DOM at 3 mg/L. Date seed-activated carbons underscore their distinctive potential, offering useful insights for the enhancement of water and wastewater treatment systems.
Source: crossref · Quality: baseline
Research context
OpenAlex topics: Dye analysis and toxicity · Date Palm Research Studies · Heavy metals in environment
SciVX discovery tags are terminology-based. OpenAlex topics are source-provided classifications.
Affiliations
Civil Engineering Department, College of Engineering, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University (IMSIU), Riyadh 13318, Saudi Arabia
Department of Civil Engineering, American University of Sharjah, Sharjah P.O. Box 26666, United Arab Emirates
Chemical Engineering Department, College of Engineering, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University (IMSIU), Riyadh 13318, Saudi Arabia
Funding
Sharjah National Oil Corporation grants for the American University of Sharjah · Open Access Program from the American University of Sharjah
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