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In a recent study, researchers explored the adsorption performance of cotton shell-based activated carbon for removing cadmium ions (Cd2+) from simulated wastewater. This study utilized a single-factor exploration method to optimize various conditions such as reaction time, temperature, pH, and initial ion concentration for the adsorption process.

Activated carbon is known for its large surface area and excellent adsorption capabilities due to its microporous structure. Typically derived from high-carbon content materials like petroleum residues, activated carbon’s conventional production is both costly and environmentally detrimental. Given the urgent need for sustainable and eco-friendly alternatives, this study focused on cotton shell-based activated carbon—a biomass material that is not only cost-effective and renewable but also offers high carbon content.

Cotton, a major global crop, provides a significant amount of agricultural waste, which includes cotton shells that can be converted into activated carbon. China, a leading cotton producer, generates substantial cotton straw waste, particularly in the Xinjiang region. Utilizing this waste not only mitigates environmental pollution but also enhances the economic benefits for local farmers by providing an alternative revenue stream through the production of activated carbon.

The experimental results were promising. The optimal conditions determined were: a pH of 8, an initial Cd2+ concentration of 100 mg/L, a reaction time of 180 minutes, an adsorption temperature of 45°C, and a carbon dosage of about 0.1 g. Under these conditions, the removal efficiency of Cd2+ reached 94.03%, with an adsorption capacity of 51.95 mg/g. The adsorption process was found to fit well with the quasi-second-order kinetic model and the Langmuir adsorption isotherm model, indicating a spontaneous and feasible process as confirmed by the negative Gibbs free energy.

This study not only highlights the efficiency of cotton shell-based activated carbon in treating cadmium-contaminated water but also supports its application as a sustainable material in water purification technologies. By tapping into the underutilized cotton straw waste, this research contributes to the broader goal of sustainable development and environmental conservation. This publication is licensed under CC-BY-NC-ND 4.0, promoting open and accessible scientific communication.

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