Physico-chemical characterization of a low cost biosorbent for efficient sequestration of heavy metals

Heavy metal pollution from industrial effluents poses significant environmental and public health challenges, particularly in aquatic ecosystems. Traditional wastewater treatment methods, are effective but often expensive, labor-intensive, and generate hazardous waste. Biosorption, using biological materials, presents a cost-effective and environment friendly alternative for heavy metal removal. The present study investigates the potential of Madhuca indica oil cake, a by-product of oil extraction can be used as a biosorbent for heavy metal sequestration. The oil cake was characterized by its physicochemical properties, including specific gravity (1.298 g/cm3), bulk density (0.66184 kg/m3), moisture content (11.34%), and dry matter content (88.66%). These properties suggest the oil cake is dense, nutrient-rich, and easy to handle and store. Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy was used to analyze the functional groups in the oil cake before and after drying at 105 °C. The results showed minimal changes in the chemical composition, with a slight shift in peak intensities indicating concentration effects due to drying. This stability is crucial for applications requiring intact bioactive compounds. The study highlights the versatility of Madhuca indica oil cake for multiple uses, including animal feed, fertilizer, and biomass for bioenergy. Furthermore, its potential as a biosorbent for heavy metal removal underscores its promise for environmental remediation. The study concludes that further research could optimize the utilization of Madhuca indica oil cake in agriculture and pollution control, contributing to sustainable environmental management.