Assessing the Efficacy of Biochar of Okoubaka Seed in Removing Heavy Metals from Contaminated Water

Heavy metal contamination of water sources is an increasing human health concern due to industrial activities and the persistence of metals such as Pb (lead) and Zn (zinc). This study looks at the adsorption efficacy of a low-cost and eco-friendly COS (charred okoubaka seed) adsorbent for the removal of Pb(II) and Zn(II) ions from contaminated water. The standard solutions (1,000 ppm) of Pb(II) and Zn(II) prepared from appropriate weight of lead and zinc nitrate, respectively. Each metal solution was treated with 2.0 g of adsorbent. A comparative study using ACC (commercial activated carbon) was investigated and residual metal concentrations were analyzed using EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) 6010 (ICP-AES). The results showed that the biocharr of okoubaka seeds removed an average of 82% of Pb and 68% of Zn, whereas activated carbon removed 99.9% of Pb but only 68.3% of Zn. These results indicate that biochar of okoubaka seeds as absorbent has a strong affinity for Zn, while activated carbon is significantly more effective in Pb removal. The results suggest that the biochar of okoubaka seed is a potential and sustainable alternative for selective heavy-metal remediation in water treatment.