Remediation of Heavy Metals (Arsenic, Cadmium, and Lead) from Wastewater Utilizing Cellulose from Pineapple Leaves

Abstract

Heavy metals (arsenic, cadmium, and lead) remain one of the most common and complex environmental problems worldwide. Accordingly, there is a growing need for eco-friendly and affordable materials derived from agricultural waste for the removal of heavy metals from contaminated water. This study aims to demonstrate how biodegradable pineapple leaf cellulose (PLC) can be used effectively in the remediation of heavy metals. The PLC adsorbent was prepared by treating it with ethyl alcohol (EtOH, 99.5%), calcium chloride (CaCl2), and 0.8 M sodium hydroxide. A scanning electron microscope equipped with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) was used to investigate the surface of the adsorbent. Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) was employed to measure the concentration of metals before and after adsorption. Removal of metal ions (As5+, Cd2+, and Pb2+) by PLC was investigated under varying conditions, including pH, contact time, and adsorbent dosage. The analysis of cellulose composite revealed significant potential for adsorption of heavy metals such as As5+, Cd2+, and Pb2+. The highest removal efficiency of heavy metal ions was detected at a pH ranging from 3 to 7. The biosorption order of PLC at pH 6 was Pb2+ > Cd2+ > As5+ with 99.53% (63.45 mg/g), 98.44% (37.23 mg/g), and 42.40% (16.27 mg/g), respectively. After 120 min, the equilibrium of the adsorption process was reached for As5+, Cd2+, and Pb2+. FT-IR characterization discovered an increased abundance of functional groups on the adsorbent. The SEM-EDS analysis confirmed the occurrence of elements on the surface of PLC. The study revealed that the use of PLC is an innovative method for removing heavy metals from aquatic milieus, a potential resource for eco-friendly and affordable wastewater treatment.