Tratamiento de aguas contaminadas con plomo tipo (II) mediante biomasa de cascara de yuca y antracita como adsorbentes

Abstract

The department of Meta faces a growing problem of lead (Pb II) contamination in its water bodies, mainly derived from automotive, industrial, and urban activities. In response to the need for sustainable and low-cost alternatives for the removal of heavy metals, this research evaluates the performance of a gravity filtration system using a dual filtering medium composed of anthracite and chemically activated cassava peel biomass (Manihot esculenta). The biomass was subjected to chemical treatments with sulfuric acid and citric acid to enhance its adsorption capacity, while the anthracite was used as the first stage for the removal of turbidity and suspended solids. Standard lead nitrate solutions were prepared to simulate different contamination levels, and the system’s efficiency was analyzed through spectrophotometry and FTIR characterization. The results show that the treated biomass exhibits functional groups capable of retaining lead, while the anthracite improves water flow and physical quality before the adsorption stage. The designed filter achieved a significant reduction of Pb II, demonstrating that the combination of local and accessible materials is a viable alternative for wastewater treatment in the region. This study provides an environmentally sustainable, economically favorable, and technically applicable solution to strengthen water resource management in the Orinoquia region.