Application of Column Chromatography for the Separation of Lead (Pb²⁺) and Cadmium (Cd²⁺) Ions from their Mixture

In this study, a low-cost carbonaceous bio-adsorbent was developed from the powdered fruits of Casuarina equisetifolia, an agricultural waste product. The material was chemically modified through treatment with analytical grade nitric acid and sulfuric acid to enhance its adsorption capabilities. Column chromatography experiments demonstrated that the treated bio-adsorbent exhibits significant sorption capacity for the effective separation and removal of lead (Pb²⁺) and cadmium (Cd²⁺) ions from their aqueous mixture. The research also explores the potential for recovery of these heavy metal ions and the regeneration of the adsorbent, highlighting its reusability and environmental relevance in wastewater treatment applications.