Quantitative removal of Hg(II) ions from aqueous media by biosorption on rape waste biomass

The biosorption potential of rape waste biomass was examined at room temperature (20 ± 1°C) in batch systems, for the quantitative removal of Hg(II) ions from aqueous media. The biosorption characteristics of rape waste for Hg(II) ions was evaluated as a function of initial solution pH, biosorbent dose, initial Hg(II) concentration and contact time. The optimum values of all these parameters were established, step by step. High efficiency of biosorption (> 94 %), high biosorption capacity (45.5 mg/g) and cost-effectiveness are the most important aspects which recommend this biosorbent for the quantitative removal of Hg(II) from aqueous media.