DOI: https://doi.org/10.55373/mjchem.v27i2.159

Keywords: Biochar; polyaniline; composites; adsorption; heavy metal removal

Abstract

Industrial revolution and population growth result in heavy metal pollution. There is various research done on heavy metal removal, nonetheless most of the conventional methods are associated with high costs and poor performance. This study investigates the development of polyaniline-supported biochar (BC/PANI) composites as efficient adsorbents for removing heavy metal ions (Ni²⁺ and Cu²⁺) from aqueous solutions. These BC/PANI composites were examined as a promising material in removing heavy metal ions, specifically Ni²⁺ and Cu²⁺, from aqueous environments. Fourier-transform infrared spectrometry (FT-IR) analysis revealed the presence of hydroxyl, carbonyl, alkane, and alkene groups in BC, while amine, aromatic, and alkane groups were found on PANI and the composites. Ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) analysis confirmed the conductive emeraldine salt state of PANI and scanning electron microscope (SEM) images showed that the composites had pore sizes similar to pure BC, which could enhance their thermal stability. The electrical conductivity of the composites (8.0 x 10^-1 – 5.6 Scm^-1) was slightly lower than that of pure PANI (6.0 – 8.0 Scm^-1). Preliminary results indicated that the BC/PANI (ex-situ) composite achieved Ni²⁺ and Cu²⁺ removal efficiencies of 79.61% and 68.87%, respectively, while optimal conditions for Ni²⁺ removal (81.56%) were found at pH 5, 30 minutes contact time and by using 0.75 g of adsorbent. In-situ polymerization achieved superior removal efficiency (83% for Ni²⁺) with minimal adsorbent use compared to the ex-situ method (69.4%), showcasing its potential for efficient metal ion removal. These findings highlight the potential of BC/PANI composites as sustainable and cost-effective solutions for water purification and heavy metal remediation, realizing the Sustainable Development Goal 6: Clean Water and Sanitation.