Many science-based institutions in most developing countries use heavy metal containing salts in practical teaching sessions. The commonly used chemicals are the salts of lead (II) and copper (II) and the wastes generated end up into the environment when untreated. Thus, a study was done to remove lead (II) and copper (II) ions from mono synthetic aqueous solution using bio-char from Ficus natalensis fruits (FNF). This was done at varied pH, contact time, temperature, bio-char dosage level, salinity and metal ion concentration using the batch approach. The residual metal concentrations were determined using the atomic absorption spectrophotometer. The optimum pH for the adsorption of copper (II) and lead (II) ions was found to be 4.0 and 5.0 respectively. The maximum percentage adsorption of copper (II) and lead (II) by the FNF bio-char was established at 60 minutes contact time, 47.5˚C and 0.4 g adsorbent dose. Increase in the metal ion concentration and the presence of interfering ions in the aqueous solution lead to decrease in the percentage adsorption. The highest adsorption capacity was found to be 161.29 mg/g and 1250 mg/g for copper (II) and lead (II) ions respectively. The thermodynamic parameters indicated the feasibility of the adsorption of copper (II) and lead (II) on the bio-char of FNF. Thus, bio-char from FNF may be used as an adsorbent in waste management where copper (II) and lead (II) ions are present at a concentration range of between 5 and 100 mg/l.
Water is one of the essential life's basic needs. However, the purity and quality of water from groundwater sources in developing countries are still in doubt due to contamination by different anthropogenic activities. This study assessed the temporal variations in physico-chemical parameters of water sources in Kibujjo Village, Wakiso District, Uganda. Water samples were collected from four water sources: two (2) wells and two (2) boreholes. The levels of both physical and chemical parameters were assessed using APHA standard analytical methods. The results indicated that most of the measured water quality variables did not exceed the UNBS and WHO standards for drinking water, and the majority of the water parameters positively correlated. Borehole waters had a better quality than well waters. The highest levels of most of the variables were recorded during the wet season. There was a significant statistical difference (p < 0.05) among the water sources in both seasons for about 67% of the assessed parameters. However, pH, temperature, Cl − , and 2 4 SO − showed a significant difference in the dry season amongst the water sources but no significant difference during the wet season (p > 0.05). Therefore, water from wells is not recommended for drinking before treatment, most especially during the wet season.
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