Evaluation of Banana Peel as a Natural Adsorbent for the Removal of Heavy Metals from Industrial Wastewater

Abstract

This study examined the low-cost, easy, and ecofriendly adsorption of heavy metals from industrial effluent using activated carbon from banana peels.Results indicated that banana peels can remove lead, nickel, and cadmium. Heavy metal adsorption was impacted by pH, contact time, and adsorbent dosage. Nickel and cadmium adsorption rose with increased adsorbent dosage, peaking at 0.6 mg/g and 0.8 mg/g respectively. This means the adsorbent reached its maximum adsorption before desorption. Unfortunately, lead adsorption reduced at larger doses. This suggests that the binding sites were somewhat clustered, impeding lead adsorption. Overall, . Adsorption capabilities were detected at neutral pH, indicating that heavy metal ions and hydrogen ions compete for adsorption at pH 7.adsorption increased as contact time increased until an equilibrium time of 120 minutes was reached. The utilization of banana peel-derived activated carbon (BPAC) for the removal of heavy metals from industrial wastewater is effective, achieving high removal efficiencies typically ranging from 80% to more than 97 %.