Removal of Hexavalent Chromium from Aqueous Solution by the Pod of Acacia gerrardii

This study aims at investigating the potential of Acacia gerrardii pod for the removal of Cr(VI) in batch system. Effect of solution pH, biosorbent dosage, initial concentration of Cr(VI), contact time on the removal process was examined. Complete removal of hexavalent chromium was achieved at pH values 1.0 and 2.0 whereas maximum removal of total chromium was obtained at pH of 3.0. The study showed that the biosorption and bioreduction mechanisms were involved in the removal process. The time required for complete removal of Cr(VI) using the pod of Acacia gerrardii was shortened with an increase in biomaterial dosage and decrease in Cr(VI) concentration. Kinetic data was well described using Park kinetic model. Freundlich isotherm model adequately fitted the equilibrium data indication multilayer adsorption of total chromium on the surface of biomaterial. The pod of Acacia gerrardii could be used efficiently for the removal of hexavalent chromium from aqueous solutions.