Sphagnum perichaetiale Hampe biomass as a novel, green, and low-cost biosorbent in the adsorption of toxic crystal violet dye

In this study, the Sphagnum perichaetiale Hampe biomass was collected, characterized, and used as a biosorbent in the removal of crystal violet from water. The chemical and morphological results suggest that even after minimal experimental procedures, the biomass presented interesting properties regarding the adsorption of contaminants. Results of adsorption showed that the pH was not a relevant parameter and the best adsorbent dosage was 0.26 g L-1. The kinetic results presented an initial fast step and the equilibrium was reached after 180 min. For the equilibrium data, the best adjustment occurred for the Sips model, reaching a maximum adsorption capacity of 271.05 mg g(-1) and the removal percentage obtained in the maximum adsorbent dosage was 97.11%. The thermodynamic studies indicated a reversible process and that the mass-transfer phenomena is governed by the physisorption mechanism. In addition to its great performance as a biosorbent, Sphagnum perichaetiale biomass also presents economic and sustainable benefits, as its production does not require costs with reagents or energy, usually used in chemical and physical activation. The reversible process indicated that the biosorbent could be reused, decreasing the costs related to the treatment of the effluents. Thus, Sphagnum perichaetiale biomass can be considered an efficient low-cost and eco-friendly biosorbent.

Automated summary

In this study, Sphagnum perichaetiale Hampe biomass was used as a biosorbent to remove crystal violet from water. The biomass showed good adsorption properties even with minimal experimental procedures. The best adsorbent dosage was found to be 0.26 g L-1 and the equilibrium was reached after 180 min. The Sips model provided the best fit for the equilibrium data, with a maximum adsorption capacity of 271.05 mg g(-1) and a removal percentage of 97.11% at the maximum adsorbent dosage. The biomass also presented economic and sustainable benefits due to its production process.