Fixed bed adsorption of hexavalent chromium onto natural zeolite from air stream

Chromium (VI) is a known human carcinogenic agent which is used in numerous industrial processes such as electroplating, welding, textile, cement and steel fabrication. The aim of this study was to determine the effectiveness of natural zeolite on the fixed bed adsorption of Cr (VI) from air stream. In this experimental study, chromium mists were generated by a nebulizer (3A model, Italy). Performance of natural zeolite in the Cr (VI) adsorption and its influencing factors such as air flow rate (1 and 3 L/min), the initial Cr concentration (0.05, 0.15, 1 and 10 mg/m3) and the bed depth (2.5, 5 and 10 cm) were investigated. Zeolite adsorption capacity elevated by the increasing of bed depth but decreased with increasing of flow rate and inlet concentration. In order to facilitate the prediction of natural zeolite column performance Yoon-Nelson and Thomas models were used. The results showed that these models have a good agreement with our experimental data. Due to the extensive use of chromium in various industries and regulatory requirements related to workplace health and safety, Cr emission control in the occupational environment is essential. The adsorption process is one of the controlling measures of chromium emissions. The results indicated that natural zeolite has a high efficiency in Cr (VI) adsorption.