Study of uranium biosorption process in aqueous solution by red beet peel

Red beet peel was utilized for U(VI) removal in a batch system. The characterization of prepared biosorbent was performed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive spectroscopy analysis and pH point of zero charge was also determined. Removal of uranium was favourable at pH 7.00 with biosorption capacity of 41.21 mg/g, and results showed that used biosorbent exhibits selectivity for U(VI) ions. Obtained data showed very good agreement with Langmuir's and Freundlich's models. Experimental results fitted very well to pseudo-second order model and thermodynamics showed spontaneous nature of biosorption process. (author)