Removal of mercury from wastewater by adsorption on zinc oxide

Abstract

The pollution by heavy metals, particularly mercury (Hg), is a major environmental issue due to their toxicity, persistence, and bioaccumulation in the food chain. Industrial, mining, and agricultural activities are the main sources of mercury contamination. Various physico-chemical methods have been developed to eliminate mercury from used waters, including cementation, chemical precipitation, and adsorption. Zinc oxide (ZnO) is an effective adsorbent due to its specific surface, porosity, and functional groupings. However, few studies have evaluated its potential for mercury elimination. This study aims to experimentally study mercury elimination in aqueous solution using zinc oxide adsorption. The results will provide valuable data for developing large-scale treatment processes