Pb(II) and Cu(II) removal from aqueous solution using chemically modified <i>Musa paradisiaca</i> peels: Characterization, Taguchi optimization, statistical analysis and adsorbent reusability

The presence of lead and copper ions in industrial wastewater is unavoidable due to the revolutionized industrialization. Thus, an effective and ecofriendly means of removing these hazardous metals ions simultaneously from polluted water is essential for water conservation and water use for domestic purposes after its reclamation. This study prepared an adsorbent via chemical modification of Musa Paradisiaca peels (MPPHN) and applied it for Pb 2+ and Cu 2+ removal from solution. Process optimization was executed via Taguchi Orthogonal Array design. Raw Musa Paradisiaca peels and chemically modified type were characterized. At optimum predicted point, 94.08% and 93.33% of Pb 2+ and Cu 2+ ions could be respectively removed. Statistical analysis revealed developed models to be significant. Experimental data fitted well into pseudo-second order kinetic and Langmuir isotherm models. Adsorbent was stable and reusable after regeneration for five consecutive cycles. Morphological, thermal stability, crystalline and functional group attributes of MPPHN was better after the chemical modification. In conclusion, adsorbent prepared via Musa Paradisiaca peels modification could efficiently remove Cu 2+ and Pb 2+ ions from aqueous solution simultaneously.