Adsorption of Ni2+ and Cu2+ Ions from Wastewater by a Silanized Zeolite Produced with a 3-Mercaptopropyl Trimethoxysilane Modification.

Adsorption characteristics of a silanized zeolite for Ni2+ and Cu2+ ions in water solutions were analyzed by SEM, FTIR and XRD techniques. For ion removal, an optimum ratio of 1 g/L silanized zeolite was obtained for adsorbing a Ni2+ and Cu2+ solution. Equilibrium states at 220 and 108 min were reached for the adsorption of Ni2+ and Cu2+, respectively. In a pH range of 2-6, the modified zeolite demonstrated an excellent resistance to acids by exhibiting a high adsorption capacity, which increased with a larger pH.