Optimization of Copper and Lead Removal by a Novel Biosorbent: Cucumber (Cucumis Sativus) Peels-Kinetic, Equilibrium, and Desorption Studies

Cucumber peels biosorption efficiency for copper(II) and lead(II) was studied in batch mode. The optimum conditions for removal of Cu(II) and Pb(II) ions were found to be pH 5.0, biosorbent dose of 0.1g, contact time of 60 and 85 minutes, and initial concentration of 100 and 150mg/L, respectively. The kinetic data were best described by pseudo-second order model. The biosorption process followed by the Langmuir isotherm model. Maximum monolayer biosorption capacities were 88.50 and 147.06mg/g for Cu(II) and Pb(II) ions, respectively. Thermodynamic parameters suggest that the biosorption process is spontaneous and endothermic. Desorption studies were carried out with different desorbing agents.