Factors affecting on the sorption/desorption of Eu(III) using activated carbon

The sorption and desorption of Eu (III) on H-APC activated carbon using a batch technique has been studied as a function of carbon type, shaking time, initial pH solution, temperature, particle size of carbon, and concentration of the adsorbent and the adsorbate. The influence of different anions and cations on adsorption has been examined. The experimental data have been analyzed by Langmuir, Freundlich, and Temkin sorption isotherm models and the adsorption data for Eu (III) onto activated carbon were better correlated to the Temkin isotherm and the maximum absorption capacities obtained was 46.5 mg g(-1). Anions of phosphate, carbonate, oxalate, and acetate were found to increase the adsorption of Eu (III), whereas nitrate, chloride and all studied cations, potassium, sodium, calcium, magnesium, and aluminum have a negative effect on the adsorption capacity. More than 99% europium adsorbed on H-APC eluted with 0.5 M HCl solution. The activated carbon prepared from apricot stone using 70% H3PO4 could be considered as an adsorbent that has a commercial potential for Eu (III) treatment.