Thesis Abstract

Abstract
The presence of heavy metals in industrial wastewater poses a significant threat to the environment and human health. In response to this challenge, this study investigated the adsorption properties of activated carbon for the removal of heavy metals from industrial wastewater. The research aimed to explore the effectiveness of activated carbon as a potential solution for mitigating heavy metal pollution in industrial settings. Chapter One provides an introduction to the research topic, presenting the background of the study, problem statement, objectives, limitations, scope, significance of the study, structure of the thesis, and definition of key terms. The importance of addressing heavy metal contamination in industrial wastewater is highlighted, emphasizing the need for sustainable and efficient treatment methods. Chapter Two comprises a comprehensive literature review that examines existing research on the adsorption properties of activated carbon for heavy metal removal. The review covers topics such as the mechanisms of adsorption, factors influencing adsorption efficiency, types of activated carbon, and previous studies on heavy metal removal using activated carbon. Chapter Three details the research methodology employed in this study, including the experimental design, materials and methods, sampling procedures, data collection techniques, and data analysis procedures. The chapter outlines the steps followed in conducting experiments to evaluate the adsorption capacity of activated carbon for various heavy metals commonly found in industrial wastewater. Chapter Four presents a detailed discussion of the research findings, including the adsorption performance of activated carbon for different heavy metals, the influence of parameters such as pH, temperature, and contact time on adsorption efficiency, and the comparison of results with previous studies. The chapter also explores any challenges encountered during the research process and offers insights into potential future research directions. Chapter Five serves as the conclusion and summary of the thesis, highlighting the key findings, implications of the research, recommendations for further studies, and the overall significance of the investigation. The study concludes that activated carbon demonstrates promising adsorption properties for the removal of heavy metals from industrial wastewater and underscores the importance of continued research in this area. In conclusion, this thesis contributes to the existing body of knowledge on the use of activated carbon for heavy metal removal in industrial wastewater treatment. By elucidating the adsorption properties of activated carbon and its potential applications in environmental remediation, this research aims to support the development of sustainable solutions for addressing heavy metal pollution in industrial settings.

Thesis Overview

The research project titled "Investigation of the Adsorption Properties of Activated Carbon for the Removal of Heavy Metals from Industrial Wastewater" aims to address the critical issue of heavy metal contamination in industrial wastewater by exploring the effectiveness of activated carbon as an adsorbent material. Heavy metals are toxic pollutants that can have detrimental effects on the environment and human health if not properly managed. Industrial activities, such as mining, metal processing, and manufacturing, are significant sources of heavy metal discharge into water bodies, posing a serious environmental threat. Activated carbon is a widely recognized adsorbent material known for its high surface area and porous structure, which make it effective in removing a variety of pollutants from water. This research seeks to investigate the adsorption properties of activated carbon in capturing heavy metals from industrial wastewater, with a focus on factors such as adsorbent dosage, contact time, pH, and initial metal concentration. By studying the adsorption behavior of activated carbon under different conditions, this project aims to optimize the removal efficiency of heavy metals and provide valuable insights for potential industrial applications. The research methodology will involve laboratory experiments to evaluate the adsorption capacity of activated carbon for specific heavy metals commonly found in industrial wastewater, such as lead, cadmium, mercury, and chromium. Batch adsorption studies will be conducted to assess the equilibrium adsorption capacity and kinetics of the process. The experimental findings will be analyzed using appropriate mathematical models to understand the adsorption mechanisms and determine the factors influencing the adsorption efficiency of activated carbon. Furthermore, this study will explore the regeneration potential of spent activated carbon to assess its reusability and sustainability as an adsorbent material for heavy metal removal. By investigating the desorption process and evaluating the effectiveness of regeneration techniques, such as thermal treatment or chemical elution, this research aims to provide insights into the economic feasibility and environmental impact of using activated carbon for wastewater treatment. The significance of this research lies in its potential to contribute to the development of cost-effective and efficient treatment technologies for mitigating heavy metal pollution in industrial wastewater. By enhancing our understanding of the adsorption properties of activated carbon and its applicability for heavy metal removal, this study seeks to offer practical solutions to address environmental challenges and promote sustainable water management practices in industrial settings. In conclusion, the research on the adsorption properties of activated carbon for the removal of heavy metals from industrial wastewater holds promise for advancing environmental protection efforts and fostering sustainable development practices. Through systematic experimentation and analysis, this project aims to generate valuable insights that can inform future strategies for mitigating heavy metal contamination and safeguarding water quality in industrial environments.