Reduction and Biosorption of Cr from Aqueous Solution Using Banana Skin

Abstract

The possible use of biowaste-banana skin as an alternative, low-cost biosorbent and reductant for removal of Cr from aqueous solutions was investigated. Effects of pH, contact time, Cr(VI) initial concentration and temperature on the reduction and biosorption of Cr by banana skin were studied. Experimental results showed that 1 g of dried banana skin could reduce about 230 mg of Cr(VI) to Cr(III), at the condition of 30°C, pH 2 and 300 rpm. The maximum Qeq of Cr(III) by banana skin was 6.3mg g -1 at the Cr(VI) initial concentration of 200mg L -1 , 30°C , pH 2 and 300 rpm.