Indonesian Journal of Chemistry
Vol 25, No 5 (2025)

Ammonium Adsorption from Water by Macadamia Husk-Derived Biochar Forms: Mechanism and Behavior Study

Nguyen, Phuong Van (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
01 Oct 2025

Abstract

Ammonium (NH4+) is a nutrient and a pollutant of the aquatic environment. This study aims to evaluate the ability to recover NH4+ in water through the adsorption studies of macadamia husk-derived biochar at different pyrolysis temperatures (300, 450, and 600 °C). An experimental design was used to investigate adsorption conditions, including pH, biochar dosage, and NH4+ concentration in water, by letting biochar contact with NH4+ solution for about 2 h. Kinetic studies were also considered at different times. The results showed that the optimal parameters included pH 4, biochar dosage of 10 g L−1, and initial NH4+ concentration for saturated adsorption of 166.7 mg L−1. The highest NH4+ adsorption capacity of the three biochar forms ranged from 16.4 to 18.2 mg g−1, and the equilibrium time was 15–30 min. The Freundlich model is suitable for explaining the process behavior. Meanwhile, the pseudo-second-order kinetic model describes the mechanism of NH4+ adsorption process. The study provided a solution to utilize agricultural waste as an NH4+ adsorbent, as this adsorbed material can be used as fertilizer.

Copyrights © 2025






Journal Info

Abbrev

ijc

Publisher

Subject

Chemical Engineering, Chemistry & Bioengineering Chemistry

Description

Indonesian Journal of Chemistry is an International, peer-reviewed, open access journal that publishes original research articles, review articles, as well as short communication in all areas of chemistry including applied chemistry. The journal is accredited by The Ministry of Research, Technology ...