Ability of Palm Kernel Shell Adsorbent in Reducing Mercury (Hg)

Abstract

One method to reduce the content of heavy metal mercury in wastewater is adsorption. Several media materials have been investigated for use as adsorbents. In this study the characteristics of the palm kernel shell were analysed so that it could be used as an adsorbent. In addition, it also analysed its ability to reduce levels of mercury in wastewater. Palm kernel shells were activated using two types of activators, namely H3PO4 and NaOH and variations in adsorbent sizes of 50 mesh and 100 mesh, as well as variations in contact time for 30 and 60 minutes. Based on the results of this study, it was obtained that the characteristics of the adsorbent of palm kernel shells with the use of H3PO4 and NaOH activators met the quality based on SNI 06-330-95. The adsorption efficiency of mercury (Hg) removal can reach 99.7% with a contact time of 60 minutes and an adsorbent size of 100 mesh activated by NaOH.