Abstract:
The aim of this work is to study the removal by adsorption of phosphate in aqueous solutions by a clay
extracted from the M'Zila deposit (Mostaganem). The natural clay became sodic then modified by
intercalation of aluminic polycations between its layers. The clay obtained is said intercalated clay. The
X-ray diffraction characterization study confirmed the intercalation of aluminic polycations in the interlamellar
space of sodic clay. Effect of certain reaction parameters influencing adsorption was studied and
the application of kinetic and adsorption equilibrium models was detailed. The results of the adsorption
tests showed an effectiveness of tested adsorbent in elimination of phosphate. The treatment of solutions
containing from 5 to 100 mg/l gave promising results. The removal capacity is about 31,25 mg of P / g of
intercalated clay. This material could be an interesting support for the trapping of these pollutants.
