A new type of iron-loaded activated carbon (AFPAC) was created using a two-step process to effectively remove chromium(VI) from water, showing over 70% improvement compared to regular activated carbon.
The study found that AFPAC has high adsorption capacities for chromium(VI) at various temperatures and optimal pH conditions.
The removal process involves multiple mechanisms, including electrostatic attraction and redox reactions, with a detailed three-step adsorption mechanism that highlights the role of iron oxides in enhancing chromium(VI) capture.