Prediction of breakthrough curves for the removal of lead (II) in aqueous solution onto activated carbon in a packed column

The removal of ions Pb(II) from an aqueous solution of granular activated carbon was investigated at 27°C under dynamic conditions in a packed bed. This study evaluated the effect of the adsorbent bed height (1-10 cm), the volumetric flow (1-5 cm3 min-1) and the initial concentration (9,8 and 24,9 mg dm-3), on the breakthrough time and the adsorption capacity at an initial pH of 4. The results show that the improved performance of the column increases when the height of the bed of activated carbon increases decreasing the volumetric flow and the initial concentration. The experimental data of breakthrough curves were fitted to BDST (Bed Depth Service Time) models, Clark and Wolborska. BDST model provides the best fit to describe the dynamic behavior at all operating conditions studied. Clark model for C/Co relations between 0,05 and 0,5 and Wolborska model for C/Co < 0,2 satisfactorily describe the performance of the column.