Vitis Vinifera (Grape Stem Branch Powder) as a Natural Adsorbent for Removal of Cu (II) from Aqueous Solutions

Balasaheb V. Umbarkar, Rakesh Kumar, Shashikant R. Kuchekar, Haribhau R. Aher

Abstract: Copper (II) contamination in water poses significant environmental and health risks due to its non-biodegradable nature and toxic effects at elevated levels. This study investigates the use of Vitis vinifera (grape stem branch powder), an agricultural waste, as a low-cost and eco-friendly biosorbent for Cu(II) removal from aqueous solutions. Batch adsorption experiments were conducted to evaluate the influence of pH, contact time, adsorbent dosage, initial Cu(II) concentration, and temperature on removal efficiency. Characterization using FTIR confirmed the involvement of hydroxyl and carboxyl groups in Cu(II)binding, while SEM and EDX analyses revealed surface changes and metal deposition after adsorption. The results demonstrate that grape branch powder is an effective and sustainable material for Cu(II) removal, offering a promising alternative for wastewater treatment.

Keywords: Biosorption, Eco-friendly adsorbent, copper removal, Wastewater treatment, Wastewater treatment