Wastewater treatment by batch adsorption method onto micro-particles of dried Withania frutescens plant as a new adsorbent

A new adsorbent for removing metallic elements, nitrate and phosphate ions from municipal and industrial wastewaters has been investigated. This new adsorbent consists of micro-particles of dried Withania frutescens plant (<500 μm). Batch experiments were conducted to evaluate the removal of metallic elements and anions from raw wastewaters by W. frutescens particles. The results show that the micro-particles of W. frutescens plant presented a good adsorption of metallic elements, nitrate and phosphate ions from both real wastewaters. This adsorption increased with increasing of contact time. The percentage of metallic elements removal from industrial wastewater by W. frutescens plant was 98∼99% for Pb(II), 92∼93% for Cd(II), 91∼92% for Cu(II) and 92∼93% for Zn(II). The maximum adsorption capacity was dependent on the type of ions. The results also indicate that the values of chemical oxygen demand (COD) decrease after the contact with W. frutescens particles. Based on the results it can be concluded that the dried W. frutescens plant appears to be an economical and environmentally friendly material for wastewater treatment.

► New adsorbent from dried Withania frutescens plant. ► Removal of metallic elements, nitrate and phosphate ions from wastewaters. ► Percentage of metallic ions removal by W. frutescens was ∼99% for Pb, ∼93% for Cd, ∼92% for Cu and ∼93% for Zn. ► Maximum adsorption capacity was dependent on the type of ions. ► It is proved that W. frutescens plant can be one alternative source for low cost absorbents.