Adsorption of Copper (Cu²⁺) Ions from Industrial Wastewater : A Systematic Literature Review on Adsorbent Performance
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.33394/hjkk.v14i5.23047Keywords:
Copper Removal, Cu²⁺ Adsorption, Biochar Composites, PRISMA Systematic Review , Industrial WastewaterAbstract
Heavy metal contamination in aquatic environments resulting from industrial discharge specifically copper (Cu²⁺) from electroplating, electronics manufacturing, printed circuit board etching, metallurgy, and textile finishingposes severe ecological risks and human health hazards. Adsorption technology offers a viable, energy-efficient, and versatile route for copper abatement. This systematic literature review (SLR), conducted strictly in accordance with PRISMA 2020 guidelines across four major electronic databases (Scopus, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar) for publications between 2020 and 2026, critically evaluates the current state of Cu²⁺ adsorbents. A final synthesis of 48 peer-reviewed primary studies examines biochars, agricultural residues, biopolymer aerogels/cryogels, clay composites, metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), and industrial wastes. Maximum adsorption capacities (q_max) range from 38.49 mg/g for chemical-modified sewage sludge biochars to over 354 mg/g for biochar-lignosulfonate biocomposites. Operational parameters—principally pH (optimum range 5.0–6.0), adsorbent dosage, contact duration, and initial metal loading are systematically mapped alongside chemical speciation to delineate true adsorption (surface complexation, ion exchange, electrostatic attraction) from hydroxide precipitation at pH > 6.0. Crucially, this review highlights significant application gaps: over 85% of literature focuses exclusively on synthetic mono-element batch solutions, whereas real industrial effluents containing organic foulants (e.g., humic acid) and competing ions severely impair removal kinetics. Recommendations are provided for standardizing testing protocols, continuous fixed-bed column design, multi-cycle desorptive regeneration, and techno-economic life-cycle evaluations necessary to bridge laboratory innovations with full-scale industrial effluent treatment.
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