Adsorptive Removal of Methylene Blue Using Chitosan-Modified Bio chars Derived from Palm Biomass Bio char

Abstract

Dye pollution from industrial wastewater process a significant environmental challenge due to its toxicity and persistence in aquatic ecosystems. This study investigates the adsorption of methylene Blue (MB) from aqueous solutions using chitosan-modified biochar derived from palm tree biomass as a low-cost and sustainable adsorbent. The primary objective was to evaluate the adsorption efficiency under various conditions, including pH, contact time, initial dye concentration, and temperature. The biochar was prepared through chemical activation, followed by chitosan modification, and characterized using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-ray Diffraction (XRD), and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) to determine its structural and chemical properties. Batch adsorption experiments revealed that the optimal adsorption occurred at pH 8, with an equilibrium contact time of 60 minutes and a maximum adsorption capacity of 93 mg/g. Adsorption isotherms were best described by the Langmuir model, indicating monolayer adsorption, while kinetic studies followed the pseudo second-order model, suggesting chemisorption as the dominant mechanism. The results demonstrate that chitosan-modified biochar is an effective and eco-friendly adsorbent for dye removal, offering a promising alternative to conventional methods. The study recommends further exploration of its reusability and application in large-scale wastewater treatment systems.