FABRICATION AND CHARACTERIZATION OF SUGARCANE BAGASSE BASED CELLULOSE ACETATE/ZEOLITE (CA/Ze) MATERIAL FOR ELIMINATION OF Pb AND Cu IONS FROM AQUEOUS SOLUTIONS

Abstract

This study explores the synthesis and characterization of cellulose acetate/zeolite (CA/Ze) fibers as effective adsorbents for the removal of Pb2+ and Cu2+ ions from aqueous solutions. Cellulose acetate was derived from sugarcane bagasse (SCB) and integrated with zeolite to create CA/Ze fibers. Characterization techniques, including FTIR spectroscopy and SEM analyses, confirmed the successful modification and incorporation of zeolite within the fiber structure. Hydration studies revealed the fibers’ stability in water, while adsorption experiments examined factors affecting adsorption capacity, such as pH, time, initial concentration, and reuse. The Langmuir and Freundlich isothermal models were applied to analyze adsorption isotherms. The results demonstrated the potential of CA/Ze fibers for efficient heavy metal removal, with a maximum adsorption capacity for Pb2+ ions of 13.9 mg/g. While the adsorption efficiency decreased after regeneration cycles, CA/Ze fibers displayed promise as sustainable adsorbents. This research contributes to addressing heavy metal pollution while promoting eco-friendly waste utilization.