Journal of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Research (ISSN : 0975-7384)

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Original Articles: 2013 Vol: 5 Issue: 4

Removal of chromium (VI) and iron (III) from aqueous solution using agricultural byproducts

Abstract

Heavy metal contamination in drinking water has become a more serious environmental problem in the last several decades as a result of its toxicity and insusceptibility to the environment. Adsorption process has been overlooked as one of the best water treatment technologies around the world. Use of waste materials as low-cost adsorbents is attractive due to their contribution in the reduction of costs for waste disposal, therefore contributing to environmental protection. The primary objective of this study is to identify the most appropriate agricultural byproduct among Strychnos potatorum (nirmali) and Azadirachta indica (neem) seeds for the removal of Chromium (VI) and Iron (III) from water and to compare their removal efficiency. The parameter investigated includes the effect of contact time, metal ion concentration, temperature and pH. Strychnos potatorum shows better removal efficiency of 69% of Chromium (VI) and 58% of Iron (III) at acidic pH and 0.1 mg L-1 of initial metal ion concentration. Optimal conditions were obtained with an increase in temperature at an exposure time of 24 hours. The adsorption of the metal ion species on Strychnos potatorum seed is characterized by X-Ray Diffraction analysis. This method is studied and proved for its eco-friendly feasibility and simple technology for water treatment thus providing quality of life for underdeveloped communities.