Mathematical modeling of batch adsorption of manganese onto bone char

Abstract

The present study investigated the dynamics of batch adsorption of manganese onto bone char by using two distinct mathematical formulations: the diffusion model and the shrinking core model. Both models assumed spherical particles and adequately described the transient behavior of metal adsorption under changing operating conditions. Comparatively, the diffusion model described the manganese adsorption better at distinct particle sizes even when small particles were used (dp ≤ 0.147 mm); the shrinking core model proved to be more reliable when larger adsorbent particles were used (dp > 0.147 mm), and it described experimental data better at changing solid-liquid ratios. Manganese adsorption was favored when: (i) smaller adsorbing particles were used due to the increase in the contact area and easier access to reacting sites of the char; however, such an effect proved to be limited to dp ≤ 0.147 mm, and (ii) higher solid-liquid ratios were used due to the increase in the available reacting sites. External and intraparticle mass transfer dependences on particle size and solid-liquid ratio were also investigated, and results corroborated with prior investigations found in the literature.