Removal of Pb(II) from aqueous solution by Antep Pistachio shells

Adsorption studies for Pb(II) removal from aqueous solution on soft shell of Antep pistachio (Pistacia vera L.) were carried out in a batch system under varying experimental conditions of contact time, pH, temperature, initial Pb(II) concentration and adsorbent dosage. It was found that all equilibrium isotherms fitted the Freundlich isotherm well in the concentration rage of 5-100 mg.l^-1 Pb(II). The adsorption of Pb(II) on the soft shell of Antep pistachio obeys first order reversible kinetics. The adsorption efficiency remained constant across the pH range of 4 to 7 for a Pb(II) solution with the concentration of 30 mg.l^-1. This pH range was also favorable for the adsorption of Pb(II) in wastewater. It was determined that temperature of adsorption media does not play an important role on the adsorption efficiency.