Dynamic simulation of lead(II) metal adsorption from water on activated carbons in a packed-bed column

Abstract

In this work, lead(II) adsorption on activated carbons, tire-derived activated carbon (TAC), and commercial activated carbon (CAC), in a packed-bed column, was simulated using the Aspen Adsorption® V11 flowsheet simulator. The simulator was used to model the fixed-bed adsorption column and to establish the breakthrough curves by varying the initial concentration of lead(II) ions (500 mg/L, 1000 mg/L, 2000 mg/L, and 3000 mg/L), the bed height (0.2 m, 0.3 m, 0.4 m, 0.5 m, and 0.6 m), and the flow rate (9.88 × 10−4 m3/s, 1.98 × 10−3 m3/s, 2.96 × 10−3 m3/s, 3.95 × 10−3 m3/s, and 4.94 × 10−3 m3/s), at constant temperature and pressure of 25 °C and 3 bar, respectively. At the optimum conditions of 500 mg/L lead(II) concentration, 0.6 m bed height, and 9.88 × 10−4 m3/s flow rate, the breakthrough times were 488 s and 23 s for TAC and CAC, respectively. Under the same conditions, the adsorption capacity obtained at t0.5 was 114.26 mg/g for TAC and 7.72 mg/g for CAC. The simulation results indicate the potential of TAC for the adsorption of lead(II) in comparison to CAC.

Dynamic Modelling, Simulation, and Sensitive Analysis of Lead Removal in a Fixed-Bed Adsorption Column using Waste-Based Materials

“…It successfully identifies optimal adsorption models, achieves efficient column regeneration, and confirms lead adsorption in algae materials [1]. The second research item focuses on simulating lead (II) adsorption on activated carbons, employing tools like Aspen Adsorption® and experimental setups to optimise conditions, record breakthrough data, and validate simulations [2]. The third item evaluates granular activated carbon for heavy metals removal, utilising GAC, fixed bed columns, and the Adam-Bohart equation, resulting in effective heavy metals removal and accurate breakthrough predictions [3].…”

“…The presence of lead in water resources often stems from deteriorating infrastructure, such as aging lead pipes and plumbing fixtures, which can leach this hazardous element into the water supply. Chronic exposure to even low levels of lead can lead to a range of health problems, including developmental delays in children, neurological disorders, and an increased risk of cancer [1][2][3]. Thus, the control and mitigation of lead emissions into water resources remain critical for safeguarding public health and preventing the associated carcinogenic risks.…”

“…Optimal Conditions: Identified the optimum conditions for lead (II) adsorption (500 mg/L concentration, 0.6 m bed height, and 9.88 × 10−4 m3/s flow rate). [2] commercial activated carbon (CAC) in lead (II) adsorption.…”