Removal of trivalent chromium from aqueous solutions by natural clays: Valorization of saturated adsorbents as raw materials in ceramic manufacturing

Abstract

Kaolinite/illite (KUb) and sepiolite (SEP) clays were used to study Cr(III) adsorption removal from aqueous solutions so that they could be utilized after saturation for ceramic manufacturing. SEP had a larger specific surface area and a higher PZC than KUb. The removal of Cr(III) was evaluated using a batch equilibration procedure at pHi = 4 and pHi = 6. Fast removal kinetics were observed for both clays. Maximum removal capacity was determined by changing the concentration of Cr(III) while keeping the concentration of clay constant and by altering the amount of clay while keeping the concentration of Cr(III) constant. In all situations, SEP had greater capacity than KUb, and capacity was greater for both clays at higher pHi. Not only did the pHi impact the removal capacity and efficiency, but so did the pH during adsorption and the initial concentration of Cr(III). Because of the higher PZC, the pHf for SEP was higher for the same pHi. The higher the pH and Cr(III) concentration, the higher the probability of Cr(OH)3 precipitation and the higher the removal capacity. Dried saturated clays were uniaxially pressed and sintered at 1000 °C for 2 h. The densities of the sintered materials were nearly identical to those of pure clay-based materials, but the compressive strengths were higher, which is significant for the use of saturated clays as raw materials in ceramic manufacturing. Leaching of Cr from SEP-based material was significantly higher than from KUb-based material probably due to the presence of CaCO3 in the SEP.