Ecofriendly Synthesis and Multiscale Characterization of Abies marocana Needle-Derived Biosorbent for Wastewater Remediation

The increasing demand for sustainable materials in wastewater treatment has led to exploring plant-based biosorbents. Abies marocana needles, an abundant Moroccan biomass, offer promising potential due to their rich surface chemistry and renewability. This study focuses on synthesizing and characterizing a biosorbent from these needles for dye removal applications.

Raw A. marocana needles were chemically activated using sulfuric acid to improve adsorptive properties. The biosorbent was characterized using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) for functional groups, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) for surface morphology, analysis for surface area and porosity, X-ray Diffraction (XRD) for crystallinity, and Point of Zero Charge (pHpzc) for surface charge determination. Preliminary adsorption tests with methylene blue dye were conducted to assess performance.

FTIR confirmed the presence of hydroxyl, carboxyl, and phenolic groups essential for adsorption. SEM revealed a porous, heterogeneous surface after chemical treatment. Surface analysis showed increased surface area and pore volume, indicating enhanced adsorption sites. XRD patterns suggested an amorphous carbonaceous structure favorable for adsorption. The pHpzc value indicated a surface charge conducive to adsorbing cationic dyes. Adsorption tests demonstrated significant methylene blue uptake, confirming effective interaction between dye molecules and biosorbent surface.

The chemically activated A. marocana needle biosorbent exhibits promising structural and chemical properties for organic dye adsorption. This green material offers a cost-effective and environmentally friendly option for wastewater treatment, warranting further optimization for industrial applications.