Abstract:
Heavy metal contamination in water bodies is a significant environmental concern, with lead being one of the most toxic pollutants. Traditional methods for removing heavy metals are often costly and may generate secondary waste. In this study nanomaterials were synthesized using vernonia amygdalina plant extract as reducing and stabilizing agents and eliminating harmful chemicals, using environmentally friendly methods. The characterization techniques, including x-ray diffraction (XRD), FTIR, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and zeta potentials were employed to investigate the structural, functional, morphological and surface charge properties of the synthesized nanomaterials. The adsorption performance of the Nickel-tungsten-based nanomaterials towards lead removal from aqueous solution was evaluated under varies experimental parameters conditions, such as pH, contact time, initial lead concentration and adsorbent dose. The adsorption data were fitted to different isotherm models (Langmuir, Freundlich, Temkin) and kinetic models (pseudo-first order, pseudo second order to understand the adsorption mechanism. The result demonstrated that green synthesized Nickel- tungsten based nanomaterials show excellent adsorption capacity, for removal of lead from aqueous solution. The adsorption process was rapid and followed a pseudo-second order kinetic model, suggesting chemisorption as predominant mechanism. The Freundlich isotherm model provided the best fit to the experimental data, indicate monolayer adsorption. Additionally, nanomaterials exhibited good reusability after multiple adsorption-desorption cycles, making them promising candidate for practical wastewater treatment applications. In conclusion, this research indicates the potential of green synthesized tungsten- based nanomaterials as effective and sustainable adsorbents for the removal of lead from aqueous solution. The finding contributes to the development of eco- friendly and efficient water treatment technology
