A biocompatible
sorbent, namely, nano-hydroxyapatite embedded gelatin
(n-HApGel) composite, was developed by an in situ precipitation method.
The synthesized biocomposite was subjected to the removal of hexavalent
chromium from aqueous solution in batch mode. The Fourier transform
infrared, scanning electron microscopy, and energy dispersive X-ray
analysis techniques were adapted for investigating the functional
groups, surface morphology, and elements present in the sorbent. The
crystalline nature of the composite was carried out using X-ray diffraction
studies. Thermogravimetric analysis gives the thermal stability of
the composite. The size and shape of the composite was studied using
transmission electron microscopy analysis. The sorption process was
optimized by various influencing factors, viz., contact time, adsorbent
dosage, initial chromium concentration, temperature, pH, and competing
ions for maximum sorption. The equilibrium data were fitted to Freundlich,
Langmuir, and Dubinin–Radushkevich isotherms. Thermodynamic
parameters indicate the nature of chromium(VI) sorption, and a possible
sorption mechanism was proposed for the removal of Cr(VI) using n-HApGel
biocomposite. The suitability of the biocomposite at field conditions
was tested with field water taken in a nearby industrial area.
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