Microstructural Characterization and Adsorption Properties of Alkali-Activated Materials Based on Metakaolin

Authors

  • Katarina Trivunac Faculty of Technology and Metallurgy, University of Belgrade
  • Ljiljana M. Kljajević Institute of Nuclear Science Vinča, University of Belgrade
  • Snežana Nenadović Institute of Nuclear Science Vinča, University of Belgrade
  • Jelena Gulicovski Institute of Nuclear Science Vinča, University of Belgrade
  • Miljana Mirković Institute of Nuclear Science Vinča, University of Belgrade
  • Biljana Babić Institute of Nuclear Science Vinča, University of Belgrade
  • Slavica Stevanović Faculty of Technology and Metallurgy, University of Belgrade

Abstract

The microstructural characterization and adsorption properties of metakaolin (MK) and alkali-activated metakaolin, known as geopolymer materials (GP) were investigated. The structure and properties of the metakaolin and obtained geopolymer were studied by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Fourier transform infrared(FTIR) spectroscopy. Furthermore, based on the analysis of adsorption efficiency, microstructure and mineral structure, the difference between geopolymer and metakaolin on the performance of immobilizing heavy metals have been discussed. The kinetics of adsorption can be represented by pseudo-second order equation. The results of lead ions adsorption experiments were best fitted by Freundlich adsorption isotherm for both investigated adsorbents. The highest removal efficiencies of alkali-activated material based on metakaolin was found 97.5% at pH 4 and metakaolin removal efficiencies was found 92% at pH 5.5.

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Published

2017-12-13

Issue

Vol. 48 No. 2 (2016)

Section

Articles