Biosorption of Cadmium (II) from Aqueous Solutions by Prunus Avium Leaves

A new biosorbent from Prunus avium (sweet cherry) leaves was used to remove cadmium(II) from aqueous solutions. The biosorption of cadmium(II) was found to be dependent on solution pH, initial metal ion concentrations, biosorbent dose, and contact time. The experimental equilibrium biosorption data were analyzed by two widely used two-parameters, Langmuir and Freundlich isotherm models. The Langmuir model gave a better fit than the Freundlich model. The kinetic studies indicated that the biosorption process of the cadmium ions followed well pseudo-second-order model. It was concluded that Prunus avium leaves powder can be used as an effective, low cost, and environmentally friendly biosorbent for the removal of Cd(II) ions from aqueous solution.