Optimization of lead (II) removal in leachates using Moringa oleifera seeds

Abstract

The absence of comprehensive programs in regulating release of lead to the environment in growing cities situated in developing countries results to widespread intrusion of lead bioaccumulation in their primary sources of food. As a result, a significant increase in lead related diseases continually grows in many low income regions. In an attempt to provide a means of minimizing lead bioaccumulation, we test the extent to which Moringaoleifera seeds (MOS) removes lead (II) ions in aqueous solution. A box-behnken experimental design was used to obtain the optimal conditions in the lead (II) removal process. MOS dosage, initial lead (II) concentration, and pH were found to have significant effects on the percent removal of lead (II) in solution. Actual values of these independent variables were chosen on the basis of preliminary experimental results. Optimum conditions were found to be: MOS dosage 10.0 g/L, initial lead (II) concentration 20.0 ppm, and pH at 5.5. Lead removal using MOS was also performed at optimal conditions. In conclusion, a high lead (II) removal using MOS strongly suggests its potential to be used as a means of treating liquids highly contaminated with lead.