Inorganic particulates in removal of toxic heavy metal ions. Efficient removal of cadmium ions from aqueous solution by hydrous zirconium oxide

Adsorption of cadmium ions on hydrous zirconium oxide (HZO) has been studied as a function of Cd(II) concentration, temperature and pH applying radiotracer technique. The uptake process was favoured at higher concentrations and temperature. The kinetics of the process follow first order rate law and obey the classical Freundlich isotherm over the entire range of the bulk concentration of Cd(II). The process was found to be 'ion exchange' type and irreversible in nature. Effect of some cations and acid concentrations on the uptake of cadmium was also observed.