Efficient biosorption of mercury (Hg) using Carica papaya stem waste as biosorbent

A Molecule shifts from a fluid bulk to a solid surface through a surface process known as adsorption. The presence of heavy metals in water represents a major environmental challenge, posing significant risks to human health and ecosystems. Traditional methods of removal are often inefficient and costly, creating a need for more effective and sustainable alternatives. Biosorption, which uses living or non-living biomass to adsorb pollutants, offers a promising solution. This study explores the use of agro waste of Carica papaya(stem) for the removal of mercury ions from water. The mercury concentration and the functional groups involved in biosorption were analysed using Inductively Coupled Plasma Atomic Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-AES) and Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). The results show that Carica papaya achieved an adsorption efficiency of 87.99% at a mercury concentration of 600 ppm, pH 4, and after a 24-hour contact period. These findings highlight the potential of Carica papaya(stem) as an eco-friendly and effective approach for water purification and environmental conservation.