Modeling of Copper Adsorption by Moringa oleifera Seed Powders

Abstract

In this work, an inexpensive and environmentally friendly natural adsorbent obtained from shelled (GD) and unshelled (GND) Moringa oleifera seeds was used for copper adsorption from aqueous solutions. A series of experiments were performed to assess the parameters influencing the adsorption phenomenon such as pH, adsorbent mass, adsorption equilibrium time and temperature. The kinetic results of adsorption described a pseudo-second order model. The adsorption isotherms are satisfactorily described by the Langmuir mathematical model. The thermodynamic data revealed a spontaneous and endothermic adsorption phenomenon. The level of copper in surface water before and after addition of moringa powders was carried out to verify the effectiveness of the adsorbent. A maximum adsorption rate of 51.28% and 61.96% was obtained with GD and GND powders respectively. Moringa oleifera seed powders are an effective alternative for the removal of copper from surface water.