Optimization of pH and contact time adsorption of banana peels as adsorbent of Co(II) and Ni(II) from liquid solutions

Abstract

Co and Ni are heavy metals found in water and wastewater. Biosorption is a new treatment technology for handling heavy metal wastewater. Numerous studies have shown that many agricultural wastes have the ability to absorb heavy metal ions, such as banana peels. Therefore, the aim of this research were optimization of pH and contact time on the adsorption of Co(II) and Ni(II) by utilizing banana peels waste. The research began by making banana peels powder then characterizing using FT-IR to identify the functional group on banana peels powder. Determination of optimum pH was carried out at pH 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7 in 10, 20, 30, 40, dan 50 minutes contact time. The results of characterization showed that the presence of hydroxyl group at 3266cm-1 and carboxylic acid (C=O) group at 1730cm-1. The optimum condition of Co(II) and Ni(II) adsorption at pH 4 with percentage adsorption were 34.74% (Co) and 41.43 (Ni); and optimum contact time in 30 minutes with percentage of Co(II) and Ni(II) adsorption were 36% and 25%, respectively.