Removal and recovery of lead in a fluidized-bed reactor by crystallization process

Abstract Lead (Pb) is known for its high and long-term toxicity even at very low concentrations and its presence limits the reusability and recyclability of industrial wastewaters. In this study, Pb was recovered from synthetic wastewater as PbCO 3 crystals via the fluidized-bed crystallization process. Pb removal exceeded 99% when the operating pH was kept within a range of 8–9 and the carbonate-to-lead molar ratio was set to 3:1. Higher Pb removals were obtained with the gradual reduction of recirculation flow rate. The present study demonstrates the potential of Pb recovery from contaminated wastewaters using fluidized-bed crystallization technology.