Removal of beryllium (Be2+) from aqueous solution by 5-sulfosalicylic acid-loaded anion-exchange resin

This study presents the preparation and application of a 5-sulfosalicylic acid-loaded anion-exchange resin to remove Be²⁺ from aqueous solutions. Optimization efforts focused on critical parameters, including resin dosage, initial solution pH, and the influence of interfering ions. Results indicate an optimal resin dose of 0.3 g and a working pH of ≥ 4.0 for maximal Be²⁺ removal efficiency. Kinetic analysis reveals rapid removal kinetics, with 99% removal achieved within 45 min. Notably, the resin exhibits remarkable selectivity, maintaining consistent removal rates for Be²⁺ even in the presence of common interfering ions such as Na⁺, K⁺, Ca²⁺, Mg²⁺, and Fe²⁺. Sorption isotherms fitting the Langmuir model further support the resin's effectiveness in Be²⁺ removal. Thermodynamic evaluation suggests the removal process is spontaneous (∆G° < 0) and endothermic (∆H° > 0), indicating favorable energetics. Crucially, the Be-loaded resin is easily regenerated using 0.1 M HCl, enhancing its practical applicability. These results highlight the effectiveness and potency of the prepared resin in Be²⁺ removal, suggesting promising solutions for addressing environmental contamination.