Biosorption of Cr(VI) from aqueous solution by chemically modified potato starch: Equilibrium and kinetic studies

The biosorption capacity of chemically modified potato starch (CPS) for Cr(VI) from aqueous solution was investigated. The materials derived from carbohydrates are biodegradable and are generally regarded as safe and environmentally acceptable. The hydroxyl, carboxyl and carbonyl groups are responsible for the biosorption process. In the present study, the influence of various important parameters such as pH, time, biosorbent dose and initial Cr(VI) concentration on the biosorption capacity were investigated. The isotherms such as Langmuir, Freundlich and Tempkin were studied. The Freundlich and the Redlich–Peterson isotherms had been well fitted the biosorption of Cr(VI) with chemically modified potato starch. The kinetics of Cr(VI) removal using chemically modified potato starch was well explained by second-order kinetic model. The thermodynamic parameters were also evaluated from the biosorption measurements. Among the various desorbing agents tested, 98.2 percent chromium recovery was achieved with 0.1 mol L−1 NaOH.

► Biosorption of Cr(VI) on chemically modified potato starch was studied.
► The extent of biosorption depends on pH, concentration, biosorbent dosage, time.
► The Freundlich isotherm and Redlich–Peterson model were found to be fit for this study.
► Second order kinetic model was found to be applicable.
► Thermodynamic constants were evaluated.