Modeling and Optimization of Heavy Metals Biosorption by Low-Cost Sorbents Using Response Surface Methodology

Abstract

This paper exploits, through modeling and optimization, the experimental laboratory data on the biosorption of heavy metal ions Pb(II), Cd(II), and Zn(II) from aqueous media using soybean and soybean waste biomasses. The biosorption modeling was performed using the Response Surface Methodology, followed by optimization based on numerical methods. The aim of the modeling was to establish the most probable mathematical relationship between the dependent variables (the biosorption efficiency of the biosorbents when adsorbing metal ions, R(%), and the biosorption capacity of sorbents, q(mg/g)) and the process parameters (pH; sorbent dose, DS (g/L); initial metal ion concentration in solution, c0 (mg/L); contact time, tc (min); temperature, T (°C)), validated by methodologies specific to the multiple regression analysis. Afterward, sets of solutions were obtained through optimization that correlate various values of the process parameters to maximize the objective function. These solutions also confirmed the performance of soybean waste biomass in the removal of heavy metal ions from polluted aqueous effluents. The results were validated experimentally.

Innovative Materials and Processes for Removal of Biopersistent Pollutants

“…As evidence of the high interest in the topics covered, to date, all the papers have been cited in other works, reaching 18 citations [5], 6 citations [6,7], 5 citations [3,10], 4 citations [4], 2 citations [1,8,9], and 1 citation [2].…”

“…A range of different but complementary topics were addressed, from environmental regulation [1] to the development of applications that can be useful in supporting decisions [2][3][4]. Furthermore, many studies analyzed how the modification of some materials can be effective for the reduction in pollutant dispersions [5][6][7][8][9] and the application of an innovative plant configuration [10].…”

A novel oyster shell biocomposite for the efficient adsorptive removal of cadmium and lead from aqueous solution: Synthesis, process optimization, modelling and mechanism studies

“…The discharge of wastes generated from the industry on the environment and the receiving water is a persistent environmental issue [ 1 ]. In recent years, rapid industrial expansion has increased the discharge of heavy metals into the environment and the receiving water [ 2 ].…”

“…Heavy metal is toxic and hazardous to human health even at low concentrations [ 3 ]. Heavy metals of Cd and Pb are the most common pollutants generated from industry and they constitute detrimental effects causing different forms of health disorders and diseases [ 1 ]. Therefore, the removal of these metals before discharge is essential for the preservation of water quality and the ecosystem.…”

Removal of Zinc Ions from Aqueous Solutions with the Use of Lignin and Biomass Part II

“…Lignin, occurring in large quantities as a by-product in pulp production, and so far used mainly for energy purposes, enjoys unflagging interest. The structure of lignin creates great opportunities for scientific and applicative activities [1][2][3][4][5][6][7][8], while its recovery from black liquors can provide significant environmental benefits. For example, the extensive structure of the lignin molecule and the presence of characteristic functional groups on its surface allows to use it as a sorbent to capture metal ions and effectively remove them from the environment.…”