Synergistic sorption: Enhancing arsenic (V) removal using biochar decorated with cerium oxide composite

Removal of Arsenic, a potent carcinogen from aqueous environments is imperative to ensure the provision of potable water and to mitigate the risks associated with its exposure. In this study, we explore a composite based on biochar derived from coconut-shell loaded with Cerium Oxide for the removal of Arsenic (As(V)) by adsorption. The synthesized adsorbent combines the characteristic high specific surface area of carbon materials with high adsorption affinity of CeO2 towards Arsenic to create a synergistic effect. Various parameters such as initial concentration, adsorbent dosage, presence of coexisting anions etc., were investigated to determine the kinetics and thermodynamics of adsorption. The effect of initial pH on the adsorption was also investigated and maximum removal efficiency of around 99 % was observed. A very high adsorption capacity was observed and highlighting the genesis of a highly effective adsorbent for the removal of As(V) incorporating an inexpensive and ecologically acceptable approach.