Heavy metal adsorption ability of a new composite material based on starch strengthened with chemically modified cellulose

Adsorption of heavy metals (Pb, Zn, and Cu) on a new bioadsorbent based on starch reinforced with modified cellulose with toluene-diisocyanate has been studied using batch-adsorption technology. The study was carried out in order to find if this bio material, designed for seedling pots manufacture, is able to act like a barrier between soil pollutants and plants. The influence of contact time, pH, adsorbent dose, and salt concentrations was also evaluated. The obtained data were examined using the Langmuir and Freundlich adsorption models. Optimal results were obtained at pH 5.0, temperature of 25 degrees C, contact time of 120 minutes, and an adsorbent dose of 4 mg/mL. Experimental data along with computed Langmuir parameters show that the adsorption process is favorable, and the maximum adsorption capacity of the adsorbent for lead, zinc, and copper was 66.66, 58.82, and 47.61 mg/g, respectively.