Abstract

The application of adsorbents obtained from Nymphaea alba as a replacement for costly conventional methods of removing heavy metal ions from waste water has been reviewed. Detailed adsorption study of manganese on N. alba was investigated. Batch adsorption study was carried out as a function of amount of adsorbent, contact time, thermal treatment, pH and agitation speed. The adsorbent to solution ratio and the metal ion concentration in the solution affects the degree of metal ion removal. Instrumentation employed was atomic absorption spectrometer. N. alba was an excellent adsorbent as compared to number of other low cost adsorbents.

Key words: Manganese, low cost adsorbent, industrial waste water, Nymphaea alba.