Production of novel hazelnut shell-based semi-IPN biocomposite absorbents and their use in removing heavy metal ions from water

Abstract

In this study, a hazelnut shell (HS) filled semi-interpenetrating polymer networks (semi-IPN) biocomposite adsorbent with novel and different compositions was developed that will enable the removal of lead ions, which are commonly found in water, by adsorption reactions. The structural and morphological properties of the produced adsorbents were characterized by FT-IR, XRD, TGA, DSC, BET, FE-SEM, EDX, and zeta potential measurements, and the production mechanism of these adsorbents was discussed. The effects of parameters such as different adsorbent dosages, different heavy metal concentrations, type of adsorbent, contact time, pH, and temperature on the swelling abilities and adsorption properties of adsorbents were investigated in detail. It has been determined that the adsorbent, which exhibits optimum adsorption and swelling properties, is a biocomposite containing 5% by weight HS filler, and it has been observed that it can remove up to 85% of lead ions under different parameters and conditions. In addition, the adsorption behaviors of the produced biocomposites are discussed using isothermal, kinetic, and thermodynamic models. Moreover, studies have been carried out on the reusability of the adsorbent, and it has been observed that the adsorbent produced within the scope of the study is still usable even after four cycles.