Biosorption optimization of nickel removal from water using Punica granatum peel waste

The present study was undertaken to evaluate the feasibility of Punica granatum (pomegranate) peel waste for the removal of nickel from water. Batch experiments were performed to study the biosorption of nickel on prepared pomegranate peel adsorbent. The sorption process was well explained with pseudo-second-order kinetic model. The maximum sorption capacity of pomegranate peel adsorbent for nickel removal was ca. 52 mg g−1. The sorption has been found to be endothermic and data conform to the Langmuir model. The Gibbs free energy was determined to be negative, indicating the spontaneous nature of the sorption process. The results of the present study suggest that pomegranate peel waste can be used beneficially for nickel removal from aqueous solution.