The Design and Modeling of Adsorption Based Filters and the Bioremediation of Heavy Metal Contaminated Water*

I will discuss kinetic models of adsorption, as well as our mathematical models of such filters. These mathematical models have been developed in support of our interdisciplinary lab group and can be used in filter design. Our group conducts research into bio-remediation of heavy metal contaminated water via filtration. The filters are constructed out of biomass, such as spent tea leaves. The spent tea leaves are available in large quantities as a result of the industrial production of tea beverages. The heavy metals bond with the surfaces of the tea leaves (adsorption). I will compare the models' predictions to data obtained from computer simulations and experimentally by our lab group.