Biosorption of Nickel and Cobalt Heavy Metals using Green Marine Macro algae: A Preliminary Study

Abstract

This study investigates the biosorption capabilities of the marine macro alga Ulva lactuca for the removal of nickel (Ni) and cobalt (Co) ions from aqueous solutions. Experimental parameters, including pH, temperature, initial ion concentration, and contact time, were systematically varied to assess their impact on adsorption. The adsorption process followed pseudo-second-order kinetics, with equilibrium adsorption capacities of 44.84 mg/g for Ni and 43.29 mg/g for Co, highlighting chemisorption as the primary mechanism. Isothermal studies revealed that the Langmuir model provided maximum adsorption capacities of 84.03 mg/g for Ni and 50.00 mg/g for Co, emphasizing the potential of Ulva lactuca to achieve monolayer adsorption. Thermodynamic analysis demonstrated an endothermic, spontaneous, and feasible adsorption process, with increased randomness at the solid-liquid interface. These results underscore the effectiveness of Ulva lactuca as a biosorbent for heavy metal remediation and offer valuable insights for developing eco-friendly water treatment systems.