Characterization and Investigation of Biosorption of Copper (II) from Simulated Wastewater Using Chemically Modified Cassava Leaves (Manihot esculenta)

Mapua Malayan Colleges Laguna, Philippines

^* Corresponding author: rgpabdon@mcl.edu.ph

Abstract

Wastewater can contain different heavy metals that can negatively affect people and the environment. Copper (II) is one of the heavy metals that is found in both municipal and industrial wastewaters wherein it can range from 50 to 100 ppm which is above the environmental standards. This study characterizes untreated, NaOH-treated, and H₂O₂-treated cassava leaves (Manihot esculenta) to determine the most effective copper (II) biosorbent in terms of percentage of copper (II) from simulated electroplating waste water. The samples were analyzed through Atomic Adsorption Spectroscopy (AAS). Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy was employed to analyze functional groups and compare biosorbents before and after adsorption. Results revealed significant differences in peak intensities and frequencies, indicating chemical modifications. NaOH-treated leaves showed increased transmittance, suggesting deprotonation and removal of base-soluble materials. H₂O₂-treated leaves exhibited decreased transmittance, indicating increased functional groups and adsorption sites. The absorption bands of H₂O₂-treated leaves showed differences and fewer peaks in the fingerprint region, indicating significant modifications to the molecular structure compared to untreated and NaOH-treated leaves. Highest copper (II) removal was obtained with H₂O₂-treated leaves (38.67%), followed by NaOH-treated leaves (18.07%). Overall, H₂O₂-treated cassava leaves emerged as promising biosorbents for copper (II) removal from wastewater, offering efficient and environmentally friendly remediation solutions.