Exploring the promising potential of fallen bamboo leaves (<i>Bambusa bambos</i>) for efficient removal of crystal violet from wastewater

Abstract

Fallen bamboo leaves (<i>Bambusa bambos</i>), hereinafter BL have been designed to be transformed into an efficient and sustainable adsorbent for the removal of crystal violet (CV) dye from wastewater with up to 95% scavenging ability. BL have been characterized by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectra, field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), and zero point charge (pHzpc). The maximum adsorption capacity is 30 mg/g at pH 10. Physico-chemical parameters have been investigated concerning pH, contact time, initial concentration, and coexistent ions. Pseudo-second-order kinetics is followed best (<i>R</i>² =0.999) signifying a chemisorption pathway. Besides, intra-particle diffusion plays a governing role in the film diffusion of crystal violet into the core of the adsorbent. Langmuir isotherm model fits best (<i>R</i>²=0.972) suggesting a uniform, monolayer, and homogeneous adsorption. Regeneration was successful with methanol (65%) and reusability was tested for three cycles and was found to retain activity up to 80%. Analysis of CV containing industrial effluent suggests that a 36.8% reduction is possible with BL. The effect of co-existent ions suggests little influence on the adsorption. Compared to other contemporary and relevant adsorbents, it can be concluded that BL can be exercised for the sustainable decontamination of CV-containing wastewater.