Work

Locally accessible Ficus vasta and Ficus sycomorus leaves for adsorption of Cr(VI) from aqueous solution

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI) is a toxic and persistent pollutant with serious environmental and health impacts. This study evaluated the biosorption potential of locally available Ficus vasta and Ficus sycomorus leaves for Cr(VI) removal via batch adsorption experiments. Cr(VI) concentrations were quantified using flame atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Under optimal conditions – 60 min contact time, 5 mg L −1 initial concentration, 20 g L −1 adsorbent dose and 180 r min −1 agitation – removal efficiencies reached 88.89% for F. vasta at pH 2 and 91.97% for F. sycomorus at pH 3. SEM revealed irregular, porous surfaces, while Brunauer–Emmett–Teller analysis confirmed type II isotherms and surface areas of 16.485 and 16.743 m 2 g −1 . FTIR identified hydroxyl, carboxyl and carbonyl groups involved in Cr(VI) binding. Adsorption data fit the Langmuir and the Freundlich models, indicating mono-layer coverage with surface heterogeneity. Kinetic analysis aligned with the pseudo-second-order model, suggesting chemisorption. These results highlight Ficus leaves as efficient, low-cost biosorbents for Cr(VI) remediation.

Source: Mineral Processing and Extractive Metallurgy Transactions of the Institutions of Mining and Metallurgy

DOI: 10.1177/25726641251398248

Authors: Endazenaw Bizuneh Chemere, Mapula Lucey Mavhungu, Washington Mhike

Institutions: Tshwane University of Technology, Dilla University

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: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,150