Carbonized medlar-core particles as a new biosorbent for removal of Cu(2+) from aqueous solution and study of its surface morphology

Phytochemistry, nutritional composition, health benefits and future prospects of Mespilus germanica L. (Medlar): A review

Mespilus germanica L., commonly known as medlar, is one of two species of the Rosaceae family. The medlar plant has a long history of use in gastronomy and healthcare. Medlar waste is used to extract hazardous heavy metals from contaminated water. The nutritional value of M. germanica fruits comes from their composition of carbohydrates, carotenoids, amino acids, organic acids, proteins, vitamins, fatty acids, and vital components. M. germanica fruit contains a high concentration of important phenolic components, which contribute to its anti-diabetic and antioxidant properties. Additionally, several studies have identified diverse biological properties of the M. germanica plant, including the cytotoxic, neurodegenerative, and antibacterial properties of its fruits and leaves. Scientists are investigating underutilized plant species to address sustainability issues in food production. This review study will provide a comprehensive examination of its chemical composition, medical applications, plant waste utilization, and potential biological activities.

Self-purification of marine environments for heavy metals: a study on removal of lead(II) and copper(II) by cuttlebone

The aim of this study was to determine adsorption properties of cuttlebone, cuttlefish bone as dead biomass, for lead(II) and copper(II) from aqueous solutions. Adsorption kinetic, isotherm and effect of pH (in the range of 2.0-7.0) were investigated in a single component batch system at room temperature (25 ± 1 °C). The heavy metal adsorption by cuttlebone was relatively rapid and reached equilibrium in 120 min in all the cases. The pseudo-second order rate equation described the adsorption kinetic of both the ions. The adsorption capacities of Pb²⁺ and Cu²⁺ were constantly increased by pH and the optimum condition of pH was determined to be 7.0. The Freundlich model was better fitted than other models with the isotherm data, indicating sorption of the metal ions in a heterogeneous surface. According to the Langmuir model, the maximum adsorption capacities of cuttlebone for Pb²⁺ and Cu²⁺ were determined to be 45.9 and 39.9 mg/g, respectively. The results indicated cuttlebone as a promising adsorbent for Pb²⁺ and Cu²⁺, which presents a high capacity of self-purification in marine environments and also can be used for removal of the metal ions from water and wastewater.