Removal of Arsenic(III) from Aqueous Solutions by Used Black Tea Leaves

Abstract

The present work investigates the possibilities of used black tea leaves (UBTLs) without any pretreatment in the removal of As(III) from
aqueous solutions. Adsorption column with UBTLs have been used in the removal of arsenic(III) under various conditions: adsorbent
amount, particle size, treatment flow rate, initial arsenic(III) concentration, and pH. No secondary-pollution problem will arise, as
desorption of the arsenic (As) is possible. It is observed that UBTLs have good potential in the removal of arsenic from aqueous solutions.
Few experiments with real life As contaminated ground water samples show arsenic removal upto 90%. The present study might provide
new avenues to achieve the arsenic concentrations required for drinking water standards recommended for Bangladesh by WHO.