Removal of nickel ions by adsorption on nano-bentonite: Equilibrium,kinetics, and thermodynamics

Nano-bentonite was used as an adsorbent to remove nickel ions from aqueous solutions. Experimental investigation was carried out to identify the effect of pH, contact time, initial concentration, and adsorbent dose of Ni(II). Equilibrium data were described by and fitted to Langmuir, Freundlich, and Dubinin–Radushkevich models. Results showed that the optimum conditions for the removal of the Ni(II) are initial concentration 100 mg/L, adsorbent dose 0.5 g, and pH 6. Surface morphology and functionality of nano-bentonite were characterized by SEM and FTIR. The kinetics data were more accurately described by pseudo-second-order model. The intra-particle diffusion model gave multi-linear curves, so more than one step controlled the adsorption process. Nano-bentonite removed nickel with maximum adsorption capacity of 39.06 mg/g (30°C, pH) and thermodynamic data indicated that adsorption reaction is spontaneous and of an endothermic nature.