BIOGENIC SYNTHESIS OF POTATO PEEL ADSORBENT FOR THE REMOVAL OF MALACHITE GREEN DYE IN WASTEWATER
Abstract
AbstractTitle: Biogenic synthesis of potato peel adsorbent for the removal of malachite green dye in wastewaterThis study addresses the growing environmental concern of synthetic dye pollution by investigating the potential of potato peels—an abundant agricultural waste—as a sustainable, low-cost biogenic adsorbent for removing Malachite Green (MG) dye from wastewater. MG is a highly toxic and carcinogenic substance widely used in the textile and paper industries, making its effective removal critical for environmental safety.The adsorbent was synthesized through a biogenic process involving washing, peeling, and oven-drying at 500°C. Characterization of the potato peel adsorbent via Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) revealed a porous, irregular surface morphology conducive to high adsorption. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) identified key functional groups, including hydroxyl (-OH) and carboxyl (-COOH) groups, while X-ray Diffraction (XRD) confirmed the presence of amorphous cellulose.Batch adsorption experiments were conducted to evaluate the influence of various operational parameters. The results demonstrated that the adsorption process is highly dependent on pH, temperature, and contact time. The maximum adsorption efficiency was achieved at pH 6.0, a temperature of 30°C, and a contact time of 90 minutes, where a removal percentage exceeding 95% was observed. Equilibrium data were well-fitted to the Langmuir isotherm model, suggesting a monolayer adsorption mechanism with a maximum adsorption capacity of 50 mg/g. Kinetic studies followed the pseudo-second-order model, indicating a chemisorption-controlled process. Thermodynamic analysis revealed that the adsorption was spontaneous ($\Delta G < 0$) and endothermic ($\Delta H > 0$).The findings suggest that biogenic potato peel adsorbent serves as a highly efficient, eco-friendly, and cost-effective alternative to expensive commercial adsorbents. This research contributes to the development of sustainable circular economy practices by transforming food waste into a valuable tool for industrial wastewater remediation.Keywords: Biogenic synthesis, Potato peel, Malachite green, Adsorption, Wastewater treatment, Sustainable technology.
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