Removal of Cr(VI) from aqueous solution using Strychnos nux-vomica shell as an adsorbent

In the present study, the removal of Cr(VI) from aqueous solution by a Strychnos nux-vomica shell was examined in a batch study. The main process parameters such as adsorbent dose, pH, initial concentration, temperature, agitation speed and contact time were studied. The result shows that the maximum removal of Cr(VI) was observed at pH 2. The progressive changes on surface texture and the confirmation of chromium binding on adsorbent surface at different stages were obtained by the scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectrometer analysis. The equilibrium data from the biosorption study was evaluated by the use of two parameter isotherm models. Langmuir isotherm model seems to fit better with the equilibrium data. Kinetic studies were performed using pseudo-first-order, pseudo-second-order and intraparticle diffusion models. The biosorption data were found to best fitted for pseudo-second-order kinetic model. The calculated thermodynamic parameters such as G degrees, H degrees and S degrees showed that the adsorption of Cr(VI) ions onto adsorbents was spontaneous, endothermic and increased randomness in nature. The results indicate that STFS can be an effective adsorbent for the removal of Cr(VI) from aqueous solutions.