Removal of copper ions from aqueous solutions by a steel-making by-product

A study is made of the use of a steel-making by-product (rolling mill scale) as a material for removing Cu2+ ions from aqueous solutions. The influence of contact time, initial copper ion concentration and temperature on removal capability is considered. The removal of Cu2+ ions from an aqueous solution involves two processes: on the one hand, the adsorption of Cu2+ ions on the surface of mill scale due to the iron oxides present in the latter; and on the other hand, the cementation of Cu2+ onto metallic iron contained in the mill scale. Rolling mill scale is seen to be an effective material for the removal of copper ions from aqueous solutions.