Adsorption of Cd(II), Hg(II) and Zn(II) from aqueous solution using mesoporous activated carbon produced from Bambusa vulgaris striata

- Activated carbon from the bamboo species Bambusa vulgaris striata was used as adsorbent.
- The batch experiments yield to adsorbent dose = 0.6 g/L, solution pH = 9 and contact time = 16 h.
- Removal efficiency higher than 98% of Cd(II), Hg(II) and Zn(II) was achieved.
- The adsorption kinetics is described by the pseudo-second order equations.
- The isotherm models suggest the presence of a physical adsorption process.