Equilibrium and kinetic studies of adsorption of boron on activated alumina.

Boron is widely distributed in the environment, mainly in the form of boric acid or borate salts, and its contamination of waters is a concern around the world. This study focuses on boron removal by means of adsorption onto activated alumina. Optimum adsorption was achieved in the pH range 8.0 to 8.5. Approximately 60% (by mass) boron removal was achieved using an adsorbent dose of 5 g at an initial boron concentration of 50 mg/L. Adsorption isotherms at 10, 20, and 30 degrees C were investigated. The results fitted with the Langmuir and Freundlich equations showed a monolayer adsorption onto a surface, with a finite number of identical sites. To study the rate-limiting step, the adsorption kinetic data of boron were analyzed using first-order (Lagergren) and second-order kinetic models. The experimental results obtained showed that the adsorption process followed a second-order kinetic model.