Enhanced Biosorption of Pb(II) by Pterocladia Pinnata from Synthetic Solution

The purpose of this research is to explore if Pterocladia pinnata (PP) (Red Algae), which is a biosorbent frequently used as an edible seaweed in India, can be used to remove Pb(II) from synthetic media. Scanning electron microscopy(SEM) and Fourier transform IR spectroscopy (FTIR) analyses were utilized to identify the functional groups and shape of PP before and after biosorption. A statistical optimization study was done using response surface methodology (RSM) and the central composite design (CCD) technique to generate response surfaces for the sample with the highest uptake capacity. The effects of agitation period, pH, PP size, dosage, initial Pb(II) concentrations, and temperature on % biosorption were studied. The maximum Pb(II) adsorption was obtained at agitation time 240 min, pH 4, initial Pb(II) concentration – 20 mg L−1, PP dosage 20 mg/L, and temperature 303 K. Batch scale testing was used to investigate the kinetic, equilibrium, and thermodynamic aspects of biosorption. The process of biosorption experimentation reveals that the pseudo-second-order rate kinetic and Langmuir isotherm models are in good accord. According to thermodynamic parameters, Pb(II) biosorption on PP was spontaneous and endothermic and findings confirmed that PP might be a viable biomaterial for eliminating Pb(II) from polluted streams.