Pb(II) and Cr(VI) adsorption from aqueous solution on activated carbons obtained from sugar cane husk and sawdust

Adsorption isotherms were measured for Pb(II) and Cr(VI) systems adsorption from aqueous solutions on activated carbon obtained from sugar cane bagasse (CAB) and eucalyptus sawdust (CAA) in a batch-type absorber. It was found that their adsorption capacity increases between 5 and 30% among the physical and chemical activated carbons. The investigated ions were mainly adsorbed on the carboxylic groups since the adsorption capacity on the studied activated carbons is proportional in a direct to such groups. The solution's pH had an effect on the isotherms of the obtained carbons which was evaluated. It was observed that the adsorption capacity depends significantly on the solution's pH; where the highest adsorption for lead and chromium occurs at pH 4 and 5, respectively. (C) 2008 Elsevier B.V. All fights reserved.