Adsorption of chromium ions from aqueous solution by using activated carbo-aluminosilicate material from oil shale

A novel activated carbo-aluminosilicate material was prepared from oil shale by chemical activation. The chemicals used in the activation process were 95 wt% sulfuric and 5 wt% nitric acids. The produced material combines the sorption properties and the mechanical strength of both activated carbon and zeolite. An X-ray diffraction analysis shows the formation of zeolite Y, Na-X, and A-types, sodalite, sodium silicate, mullite, and cancrinite. FT-IR spectrum shows the presence of carboxylic, phenolic, and lactonic groups on the surface of this material. The zero point of charge estimated at different mass to solution ratio ranged from 7.9 to 8.3. Chromium removal by this material showed sorption capacity of 92 mg/g.

Graphical abstractA new activated carbo-aluminosilicate material was prepared from oil shale, and characterized according to its surface morphology, functional groups and mineral content. It was used as an adsorbent for removal of chromium ions from aqueous solution.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slide