Removal of Chromium from Aqueous Solution Using Hybrid Membrane of Chitosan and Silicon Dioxide

Adsorption experiment from aqueous solutions containing known amount of chromium (Cr) using hybrid membrane of chitosan and silicon dioxide was explored to evaluate the efficiency of the membrane as sorbent for Cr(VI). Some variable parameters such as pH, contact time and the dosage of the membrane were optimized. Adsorption isotherms of Cr(VI) onto the hybrid membrane were measured with varying initial concentrations under optimized condition. Furthermore, the sorption mechanism of Cr by the membrane was investigated by applying Langmuir and Freundlich isotherm equations to the data obtained. The surface morphology of the membrane was determined by SEM (scanning electron microscope) for material characterization. The concentrations of Cr in solution are determined by ICP-MS (inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry). Hybrid membrane of chitosan and silicon dioxide can be an efficient sorbent for Cr(VI).