Optimizing the lanthanum adsorption process onto chemically modified biomaterials using factorial and response...

Area of Science:

• Environmental Chemistry
• Materials Science
• Adsorption Science

Background:

• Rare earth elements, like lanthanum, pose environmental risks due to their toxicity.
• Industrial applications of lanthanum necessitate effective removal from aqueous waste streams.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the adsorption process for removing lanthanum from aqueous solutions.
• To investigate the use of chemically modified cellulose as an adsorbent material.

Main Methods:

• Cellulose was chemically modified using sodium β-glycerophosphate.
• Factorial design and response surface methodology were employed for optimization.
• Adsorption experiments were conducted to determine optimal parameters (pH, contact time, temperature, concentration).

Main Results:

• Optimal adsorption conditions were determined as pH 6, 60 min contact time, and 298 K.
• An experimental adsorption capacity of 31.58 mg g^-1 was achieved at an equilibrium concentration of 250 mg L^-1.
• Maximum adsorption capacities between 30.87 and 36.73 mg g^-1 were predicted at pH 6 and an initial concentration of 256 mg L^-1.

Conclusions:

• Chemically modified cellulose demonstrates significant potential for lanthanum removal from aqueous solutions.
• The developed adsorption process is efficient, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly.
• This study provides a viable method for mitigating rare earth element pollution.