Abstract:
This research developed a low-cost nano-bio-adsorbent using sugar cane bagasse-based
nanocrystals incorporated with magnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (CNCs-MIONPs). The adsorbent
demonstrated excellent Cr(VI) adsorption efficiency at an optimal pH of 2.0, an initial concentration
of 0.5 mg/L, and a contact time of 90 min with a shaking rate of 250 rpm, achieving a removal
efficiency of 91.78%. The increased surface area, smaller particle size, and the nanocomposite’s
active sites facilitated chromium species’ immobilisation, enhancing chromate ion removal. The
adsorption process involved chemisorption, where valence forces such as electron sharing or exchange occur between the adsorbate and sorbent. The modified CNCs-MIONPs showed improved
sorption efficiency, suggesting potential applications in water treatment plants, both for domestic
and industrial wastewater.
Keywords: bagasse; cellulose nanocrystals; nanocomposite; adsorption; chemisorption; chromate ions
