Functionalized asphaltenes were isolated from asphalt for the adsorption of several heavy metal ions from the aqueous solution. We investigated the adsorption efficiency of Selenium (Se2+), Mercury (Hg2+) and Strontium (Sr2+) ions using surface functionalized asphaltenes. However, in this presentation, we will discuss the adsorption efficiency functionalized asphaltene for the removal of Mercury (Hg2+) ion in aqueous solution. The optimum conditions for the removal of Hg2+ were at 5.5 pH, 1.00 ppm (1000.0 µg/L) concentration, 25.0 min contact time, 0.20 g/L adsorbent dose, 25.0 °C temperature with more than 85.0% removal of Hg2+ ions. The Langmuir, Freundlich and Temkin adsorption isotherm models were investigated as well as Lagergren pseudo second-order kinetic model. Thermodynamic parameters were calculated using Vant-Hoff equation and found enthalpy change (deltaH -34.80 kJ/mol), entropy change (deltaS 186.2kJ/K.mol), and change in the free energy (deltaG (-55.0 kJ/mol). The enthalpies confirm that the adsorption process is exothermic; the negative free energies confirm the spontaneity of the process; and positive entropy change shows the affinity of the functionalized asphaltene towards the Hg2+ ions. The good efficiency of the adsorption implies the efficacy in the removal of the Hg2+ ions, as well as the good efficiency in desorption imply the excellent recovery of the adsorbent. Furthermore, the functionalized asphaltene revealed an excellent durability for three regeneration cycles without a significant drop in the removal efficiency. The effective reusability of this adsorbent makes it an excellent alternate low-cost option for the removal of Hg2+ ions from the industrial and waste water.

Using functionalized asphaltenes for the removal of radionuclides from the aqueous solution

Fall 2022 abstracts, posters, and presentations will launch in mid-September.

ACS Fall 2022

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.