Biodegradable composite adsorbents of modified cellulose and chitosan to remove heavy metal ions from aqueous solution

Abstract Chromium (Cr), Lead (Pb) and Cadmium (Cd) have been conceded as one of the most perilous heavy metals which causes a prominent affliction on both environment and human health. In this study, chemical modification of biodegradable, eco-friendly materials such as cellulose and chitosan were carried out to prepare a composite adsorbent and established an optimized condition for adsorption of heavy metal ions such as Cr, Pb and Cd from contaminated aqueous wastes. α-cellulose was treated with HCl and H2SO4 to have better adsorption properties. On the contrary, modification of chitosan was carried out by acetaldehyde solution and acetic acid. Composite adsorbent was obtained as a mixture, comprising of modified cellulose and chitosan in a specific proportion (2g:1g). The surface characteristics of treated cellulose, chitosan and composite sample were evaluated by FTIR and SEM analysis. In addition, batch adsorption experiments were carried out to measure the influences of pH of the solution, adsorbent dosage and the initial concentration of metal ions. The maximum removal efficiency of Cr, Pb and Cd by composites was 56, 85 and 94%, respectively, at pH 4 when the metal concentration and adsorbent dosage were 60 ​ppm and 1.0 ​g ​L−1. The maximum adsorption of Cr, Pb and Cd by composites was 55, 80 and 91 ​mg ​g−1, respectively, at pH 4 when the metal concentration and adsorbent dosage were 120 ​ppm and 1.0 ​g ​L−1.