Sorption characteristics of Pb(II) on alkaline Ca-bentonite

Pb(II) sorption from aqueous solution onto alkaline Ca-bentonite (ACB) was investigated based on XRD, SEM and equilibrium data. Pb(II) sorption from aqueous solution on ACB occurred mainly by surface adsorption and precipitation of Pb3(CO3)2(OH)2. Pb(II) sorption on ACB was quick. Pb(II) removal by ACB increased with pH and the optimum pH for Pb(II) removal was in the range 3.0–7.0. Thus, ACB is a good candidate for removing Pb(II) from aqueous solution.