Potential of the Algerian pine tree bark for the adsorptive removal of methylene blue dye: Kinetics, isotherm and mechanism study
K. Saadallah, Chifaa Ad, Mebrouk Djedid, Maryam Batool, Mokhtar Benalia, S. Saadallah, S. Hamamda
Abstract
This study demonstrates the feasibility of Algerian native pine tree bark (NPTB) as a low-cost, sustainable adsorbent for methylene blue (MB) dye removal from wastewater. Characterization revealed a porous structure with a high surface area and abundant functional groups, ideal for adsorption. Batch experiments optimized conditions for maximum MB removal (99.47%) at pH 8, 55 °C, and 0.4 g NPTB dosage. Kinetic analysis confirmed pseudo-second-order kinetics and intraparticle diffusion, indicating chemisorption. The Freundlich isotherm model best described adsorption, with a monolayer capacity of 37.15 mg/g. Thermodynamic studies indicated the process was spontaneous, endothermic, and feasible at higher temperatures. The estimated cost of NPTB is $0.1376 USD/m³, and its low overall treatment cost makes it a promising and environmentally friendly alternative for wastewater treatment.