Cationized Lignin Loaded Alginate Beads for Efficient Cr(VI) Removal

Abstract

In this study, lignin, a lignocellulosic biomass, was chemically modified to produce polyethyleneimine-grafted lignin (PKL) with maximum hexavalent chromium [Cr(VI)] adsorption capacity. Changes in the physicochemical properties due to the cationization of lignin were confirmed through elemental analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and moisture stability evaluation. Alginate (Alg) beads containing PKL (Alg/PKL) were prepared by incorporating cationic lignin into the Alg matrix to apply the prepared PKL in a batch-type water treatment process. The optimal Alg/lignin mixing ratio was selected to increase the Cr(VI) adsorption capacity and minimize lignin elution from the aqueous system. The selected Alg/PKL beads exhibited an excellent Cr(VI) removal capacity of 478.98 mg/g. Isothermal adsorption and thermodynamic analysis revealed that the Cr(VI) removal behavior of the Alg/PKL beads was similar to that of heterogeneous chemical adsorption. In addition, the bulk adsorbent material in the form of beads exhibited adsorption behavior in three stages: surface adsorption, diffusion, and equilibrium.