Optimization of the Removal of Copper(II) Ions from Aqueous Solution on Chitosan and Cross-Linked Chitosan Beads

Abstract

The paper examines copper ion removal and recovery from mining waters using chitosan and cross-linked chitosan beads as insoluble sorbents in acidic and basic solutions. Batch adsorption experiments were carried out as a function of pH, adsorbent dosage, contact time, and initial Cu(II) ion concentration. Equilibrium data were fitted using Langmuir, Freundlich, Elovich, and Temkin models. The experimental data were best represented by using a pseudo-second order kinetic model and a Langmuir isotherm model. Recovery of Cu(II) ions from sorbents was successfully achieved by treating sorbents with an aqueous EDTA solution. A potentiometric method has been employed to detect the Cu(II) ions in synthetic water samples after the adsorption process. The results demonstrated that Cu(II) ions can be efficiently removed from synthetic aqueous solutions, similar to mining waters, using chitosan and cross-linked chitosan beads.