Removal of Pb (II) from Synthetic Solution and Paint Industry Wastewater Using Activated Carbon Derived from African Arrowroot (Canna indica) Stem

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the potential of Canna indica stem-based activated carbon (CISAC) for the removal of Pb (II) ions from synthetic solution and paint industry wastewater. The effects of pH, initial Pb (II) ion concentration, and adsorbent dose were studied using an aqueous solution prepared using pure lead nitrate (Pb(NO₃)₂) on a batch mode. Dried Canna indica stem (CIS) was carbonized in a rectangular furnace at 500°C for 2 h and treated with phosphoric acid (H3PO4) at a ratio of 1 : 1 (w/v). Results showed that the CISAC had 5.4% of moisture, 5.0% of ash, 26.7% of volatile matter, 62.9% of fixed carbon, and 797.5 mg/g of iodine number. The Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) results showed that the hydroxyl, carboxyl, and phenolic functional groups were dominant in the CISAC surface. Physicochemical characteristics revealed that raw wastewater had a concentration of 4.6 mg/L Pb (II), 3 mg/L Cu (II), 171 mg/L BOD5, 2402 mg/L COD, and 619 mg/L TSS. Better removal of Pb (II) ion from aqueous solution was achieved at a pH of 5.5, initial Pb (II) concentration of 102.4 mg/L, and an adsorbent dose of 1.4 g using response surface methodology. The highest removal efficiencies of Pb (II) which was achieved from aqueous solution and paint wastewater were 98% and 70%, respectively. The experimental data are fitted with Langmuir and Freundlich isothermic models. The results suggested CISAC as a promising adsorbent to remove Pb (II) ion from paint industry wastewater.