Highly Efficient Adsorption of Cr(VI) by Sakura Leaves from Aqueous Solution

A forestry waste, natural Sakura leaves (SL), was applied to remove Cr(VI) from aqueous solution. SL exhibited a highly effective adsorption performance at optimum pH 1.0. The presence of Cr(III) in equilibrium solution revealed that chemical redox reaction occurred. The results showed that the removal was successfully fitted to the Langmuir model (R-2 > 0.99). The theoretical maximum adsorption capacity of Cr(VI) was 148.12 mg g(-1) in static adsorption, which was much higher than similar materials. The study provides a new way to reutilize the SL and indicates a strong potential for waste recycling.