Removal of copper from aqueous solution using Ulva fasciata sp -: A marine green algae

Batch adsorption experiments were carried out for the removal of copper from its aqueous solution using Ulva fasciata sp. a marine green algae as adsorbent. The adsorption of Cu(II) by Ulva fasciata sp. was investigated as a function of pH, contact time, initial Cu(H) and adsorbent concentrations and adsorbent size. About 0.1 g of Ulva fasciata sp. was found to be enough to remove 95% of 20mg/L copper from 30 mL aqueous solution in 20 min. The optimum pH value was found to be 5. The dynamic data fitted to the pseudo-second order kinetic model. The Langmuir and Freundlich adsorption models were applied to describe the equilibrium isotherms and the isotherm constants were determined. The experimental adsorption data were fitted to the Langmuir adsorption model. The maximum adsorption capacity was 26.88 mg/g. The applicability of Lagergren kinetic model was also investigated. (c) 2006 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.