Synthesis, Characterization, and Performance of Nano-Metal-Oxide (Al2O3) Blended Biochar for the Removal of Iron from Contaminated Water for Enhanced Kinetic and Adsorption Studies

Abstract

This paper explored synthesis, characterization, and adsorption modeling for the application of nano-metal-oxide (Al2O3) blended biochar (NMOBC) derived from date palm waste in removing iron (Fe3+) from contaminated water. The pseudo-second-order model provided a goodness-of-fit that was superior to the pseudo-first-order kinetic model based on the value of R2 with all of the initial concentrations. The Elovich kinetic model also presented a good fit, indicating that chemisorption is a predominant mechanism in the adsorption process. The Langmuir, Freundlich, Redlich-Petersons, Temkin, and Sips models provided an exclusive perspective of the adsorption dynamics based on the high value of R2. However, the Sips model suggested the best fit of all of the employed models, with the lowest RMSE value of 0.0239 mg/g and the maximum adsorption capacity of 22.680 mg/g for NMOBC. Both adsorbents were effectively regenerated and reused in multiple cycles, thus leading to sustainable practices. Numerous analytical techniques, including SEM/EDX, FTIR, and BET, were employed in characterizing the structural, morphological, and functional properties of the synthesized NMOBC and BC. Subsequently, it revealed that the adsorption process and the role of various interactions are attributed to surface area, porosity, and ion exchange.