Magnetically assisted removal of heavy metals from wastewater using bio-sorbents.

M. Tech. Chemical EngineeringEnvironmental pollution due to heavy metals is a global crisis. Contamination as a result of heavy metals from industries such as mining operations, electroplating facilities, etc. pose serious threats to the aquatic ecosystem, people and the environment. Lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), mercury (Hg) and nickel (Ni) are common examples of heavy metal ions often detected in most effluents. They are characterised by their non-biodegradability, toxicity and tendency to accumulate in living organisms, and thereafter, cause various diseases and disorders. In this study, two nano-structured composite bio-sorbents were prepared to determine their metal binding capacity, effect of solution pH, contact time and elution in a magnetically assisted adsorption system. Consequently, this study aims to develop magnetically assisted adsorption process for industrial wastewater treatment for re-use