Evaluation of cadmium biosorption property of de-oiled palm kernel cake

Cadmium contamination is a global concern because of its widespread nature of polluting both biotic and abiotic components of ecosystem. Though many natural, chemical/synthetic components have been researched for remediation of cadmium, development of an eco-friendly, economic biosorbent still remains a challenge. Deoiled palm kernel cake (DOPC), a byproduct from palm-oil mills was investigated in the present study for its cadmium remediating capacity. DOPC was immobilized using sodium alginate polymer and biosorption studies were carried out using DOPC as adsorbent for removal of cadmium. Research revealed biosorption potential of DOPC and the optimum conditions for maximum biosorption of cadmium have been identified as 120 min of contact time, 150 rpm of agitation speed, pH 6 and 15 mg/L of initial cadmium concentration. Maximum percentage of adsorption was 99% by using 1.5 g/100 ml of adsorbent. The adsorption equilibrium data Biosorbent was characterized before and after adsorption by FTIR which showed the involvement of carboxyl, hydroxyl and amino-groups. Statement of novelty Cadmium pollution and the leading environmental problems is a global concern. Despite various attempts for development of different matrices for remediation of cadmium from contaminated samples, application of deoiled palm kernel cake (DOPC) as a biosorbent is not being explored. Present study provides quantitative data relating the richness of phytochemical repertoire DOPC possess, its resulting radical scavenging potential and its applications as an efficient, eco-friendly and economic alternative as a biosorbent matrix material for cadmium bio-remediation.