Adsorption of trivalent chromium from aqueous solutions onto activated carbon

Abstract The adsorption of chromium (III) onto activated carbon was investigated as a possible alternative method for its removal from aqueous solutions. The adsorption data were obtained in a batch adsorber and fitted the Langmuir adsorption isotherm well. The effect of pH on the adsorption isotherm was investigated at pH values of 2, 4, 5 and 6. It was found that at pH values below 2 the Cr(III) was not adsorbed and at pH values above 6.4 the Cr(III) was precipitated as Cr(OH)3. Maximum adsorption occurred at pH 5. The pH plays a very important role in the adsorption of Cr(III) since Cr(III) can form different complexes in aqueous solutions. The adsorption capacity was increased by about 20% as the temperature was raised from 25 to 40°C. It was concluded that Cr(III) is adsorbed to an appreciable extent on activated carbon and that the adsorption is highly dependent upon pH.