Use of granular slag columns for lead removal

The use of granular blast furnace slag (GBFS)-packed columns to treat lead-containing solutions has been investigated. The results obtained indicated that the slag usage rate decreased with increasing flow velocity, particle size, initial lead concentration and decreasing with bed height. Lead removed selectively in the presence of other heavy metal ions. High concentrations of sodium and especially calcium in the solutions impeded the uptake of lead. For 20 mg l−1 lead concentration an empty bed contact time greater of 4 min provided to efficient use of the slag bed. Column pH was an important parameter to lead removal under dynamic conditions and reflected the influence of the investigated factors. During all runs lead breakthrough coincided with an abrupt drop in effluent pH. The apparent mechanisms of lead removal in GBFS column are sorption (ion exchange and adsorption) on the slag surface and precipitation.