Work

Simulation of Pb(II) and Ni(II) Adsorption in a Packed Column: Effects of Bed Height, Flow Rate, and Initial Concentration on Performance Metrics

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Numerous studies have been conducted employing various techniques to remove pollutants from water bodies. Among these techniques, adsorption a surface phenomenon that utilises adsorbents derived from agricultural residues has shown considerable potential for the removal of contaminants such as heavy metals. However, most of these investigations have been carried out at the laboratory scale, with limited efforts directed towards predicting the performance of these systems at an industrial level. Accordingly, the present study aims to model a packed bed column at industrial scale for the removal of Pb(II) and Ni(II) ions from aqueous solutions, employing biomass derived from oil palm residues as the adsorbent material. To achieve this, Aspen Adsorption was used as a modelling and simulation tool to evaluate the impact of bed height, inlet flow rate, and initial concentration through a parametric assessment. This evaluation incorporated the Freundlich, Langmuir, and Langmuir–Freundlich isotherm models in conjunction with the Linear Driving Force (LDF) kinetic model. The results indicated that the optimal operating parameters included a column height of 5 m, a flow rate of 250 m3/day, and an initial metal concentration of 5000 mg/L. Moreover, all models demonstrated removal efficiencies of up to 94.6% for both Pb(II) and Ni(II). An increase in bed height resulted in longer breakthrough and saturation times but led to a reduction in adsorption efficiency. Conversely, higher flow rates shortened these times yet enhanced efficiency. These findings underscore the potential of computational modelling tools as predictive instruments for evaluating the performance of adsorption systems at an industrial scale.

Source: Processes

DOI: 10.3390/pr13072141

Authors: Candelaria Tejada-Tovar, Ángel Villabona-Ortíz, Ángel Gonzalez-Delgado, Rodrigo Ortega-Toro, Sebastián Ortega-Puente

Institution: University of Cartagena

Language: English

Topic: Adsorption and biosorption for pollutant removal

Subfield: Water Science and Technology

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Clean water and sanitation, Responsible consumption and production

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,896