Effect of acid modification on adsorption of hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) from aqueous solution by activated carbon and carbon nanotubes

AbstractThe present study addresses the application of raw and modified carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and activated carbon (AC) for the removal of hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) from aqueous solution. Surfaces of both the adsorbents were modified by acid treatment. Nitric acid was used to remove impurities and to introduce carboxylic functional groups on the surfaces of CNTs and AC. Raw and modified adsorbents (CNTs and AC) were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, Brunauer–Emmett–Teller surface area analysis, and thermogravimetric analysis. The influence of adsorbent dosage, contact time, agitation speed, and solution pH were evaluated on the Cr(VI) removal efficiency using batch adsorption experiments. The optimum pH for maximum adsorption of Cr(VI) was found to be 3 and 4 for AC and CNTs, respectively. Modified and raw AC were able to remove 99 and 92% of Cr(VI) ions, respectively, at 75 mg adsorbent dosage, agitation speed of 200 rpm, initial Cr(VI) concentration of 1 mg/L, contact time of 4 h, and ...