Biosorption of Cr (VI) ions by Ficus religiosa barks: Batch and continuous study

In the present research, Ficus religiosa Bark (FRB) is used as an adsorbent for the removal of heavy metal Cr (VI) ions. This Ficus religiosa Bark was characterized by Scanning Electron Microscope, Fourier transform infrared Spectroscopy, Thermo Gravimetric Analyzer and the results showed that activated adsorbent have high adsorption capacity and withstand even in high temperature. Batch and Continuous experiments were conducted to determine the effect of various parameters such as pH, contact time, adsorbent dose and initial metal concentration. The biosorption followed pseudo first order kinetic model. The adsorption isotherms of Cr (VI) on Ficus religiosa fitted well with the Temkin model. In Batch study, maximum biosorption capacity of Cr (VI) was found to be 37.97 mg g-1 (at optimal pH of 2, adsorbent dosage of 0.3 grams and concentration of Cr (VI) is100 mg L-1). The Continuous mode of study shows that 97% of Cr (VI) ion removal at a flow rate of 15 ml min-1. From the results, selected Ficus religiosa Bark has the higher adsorption capacity for the removal of Cr (VI) ions from wastewater.