BIOSORPTION OF Cd2+ IONS USING MENTHA SPICATA L. AND RUTA GRAVEOLENS L

The feasibility of using Mentha spicata L. (MS) and Ruta graveolens L. (RG) for the removal of Cd2+ ions from aqueous solution was investigated. Batch experiments were performed to evaluate the effect of contact time, acidity and initial metal concentration on Cd2+ removal from aqueous solutions. Equilibrium experimental data were fitted to linear Langmuir and Freundlich models. It was established that Freundlich isotherm most adequately described the adsorption process. Pseudo-first order, pseudo-second order and intraparticle diffusion models were used to analyze kinetic data. Maximum biosorption capacities for MS and RG were found to be 19.23 mg/g and 16.95 mg/g, respectively. The study revealed that both plants MS and RG could be used as effective biosorbents for the removal of Cd2+ ions from aqueous media.