Heavy Metal (Cr, Cu, Ni, and Zn) Removal from Electroplating Wastewater Using an Agro-İndustrial Byproduct

Ergene B., BALKAYA N.

International Journal of Environmental Research, vol.19, no.6, 2025 (SCI-Expanded) identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 19 Issue: 6
  • Publication Date: 2025
  • Doi Number: 10.1007/s41742-025-00881-w
  • Journal Name: International Journal of Environmental Research
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, Aqualine, Aquatic Science & Fisheries Abstracts (ASFA), CAB Abstracts, Environment Index, Geobase, Pollution Abstracts, Veterinary Science Database
  • Keywords: Competitive adsorption, Electroplating wastewater, Heavy metal removal, Tea factory waste
  • Istanbul University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the simultaneous removal of heavy metals (Cr(VI), Cu(II), Ni(II), and Zn(II)) from electroplating wastewater using tea factory waste as an adsorbent. The effects of parameters such as adsorbent particle size, dosage, contact time, initial pH, and temperature on the removal efficiency of these metals from synthetic wastewater (a mixture of the studied metals) were explored in a multi-metal system. Experimental data were analyzed using Langmuir, Freundlich, and D-R isotherm models. The maximum adsorption capacities (qmax) were found to be 3.68 mg/g for Cu(II) and, 3.22 mg/g for Ni(II). The order of metal adsorption followed: Cr(VI) > Cu(II) > Zn(II) > Ni(II). Thermodynamic parameters were also calculated, with negative ΔG values indicating that the process is spontaneous, while positive ΔH values suggested that the reaction is endothermic. The findings of this study demonstrate that tea factory waste has the potential to act as an effective adsorbent for the simultaneous removal of heavy metals from real electroplating wastewater.