Removal of Pb(II), Cd(II) and Co(II) from aqueous solution using Garcinia mangostana L. fruit shell

This study examines the possibility of using mangosteen shell to remove low concentrations of lead, zinc and cobalt (less than 100 mg/l) from aqueous solution. It was found that the biosorption capacities were significantly affected by solution pH, contact time and initial metal ions concentration. Un-extracted and extracted dyes of mangosteen shell were investigated. Moreover higher pH up to 5 favoring higher metal ion removal. Kinetic and isotherm experiments were carried out at the optimal pH: at pH 5.0 for lead and zinc, and at pH 4.0 for cobalt. The metal removal rates were rapid, with 90% of the total adsorption taking place within 60 min. Mangosteen shell showed the highest potential for the removal of toxic metals in aqueous solution.