Biosorption of Lead Ions from Aqueous Solution Using Ficus benghalensis L.

Abstract

Ficus benghalensis L., a plant-based material leaf powder, is used as an adsorbent for the removal of lead ions from aqueous solution using the biosorption technique. The effects of process parameters such as contact time, adsorbent size and dosage, initial lead ion concentration, and pH of the aqueous solution on bio-sorption of lead by Ficus benghalensis L. were studied using batch process. The Langmuir isotherm was more suitable for biosorption followed by Freundlich and Temkin isotherms with a maximum adsorption capacity of 28.63 mg/g of lead ion on the biomass of Ficus benghalensis L. leaves.