Removal of dyes from aqueous solutions by adsorption on chrome-tanned solid wastes generated in the leather industry

Abstract

In this work, the ability of chrome shavings and of crust leather buffing dusts to remove dyes from aqueous solutions has been studied. Buffing dusts proved to be a much better adsorbent than chrome shavings for cationic dyes. The adsorption of anionic dyes is very important on two studied wastes. The pH has an obvious influence on the adsorption of dyes. Adsorption of cationic dyes is less favourable under acidic conditions (pH <3.5) and at high pH values (pH >10.5). The adsorption of anionic dyes on both adsorbents is more favourable under acidic conditions (pH <3). The adsorption on chrome shavings is improved by the use of finer particles. The kinetic adsorption was also studied. Adsorption isotherms, at the optimum operating conditions, were determined. Adsorption follows the Langmuir model. The isotherm parameters have been calculated. The column technique could be applied to treat significant volumes of solutions.