Clay And Goethite: Natural Solutions For Lead Removal From Aqueous Environments
Chinedu Okoro Eze
Niger Delta University, Nigeria
Adaku Nwachukwu Okafor
Niger Delta University, Nigeria
Abstract
The presence of heavy metal ions in sewage effluents poses a significant environmental threat, as these pollutants can contaminate water bodies and endanger ecosystems. Heavy metals are non-biodegradable and have the propensity to accumulate in living organisms, leading to severe health disorders. Lead, a major pollutant discharged from various industries, including electroplating, electrical & electronic, hydrometallurgical processing, ore beneficiation, and tanneries, remains a critical concern for water quality. To address this issue, it is imperative to reduce the concentrations of heavy metals released into water bodies. However, the effective removal of dissolved metal species is often hindered by the lack of reliable sorbents and a comprehensive understanding of metal sorption mechanisms. This study aims to investigate the influence of mineral systems involving kaolinite-montmorillonite, kaolinite-goethite, and montmorillonite-goethite on the sorption behavior of lead with respect to various environmental factors. These factors include pH, ionic strength, solid concentration, and residence time. Understanding the sorption characteristics of lead onto these mineral systems is crucial for developing effective strategies to remove heavy metals from sewage effluents and prevent their detrimental impact on aquatic ecosystems