Effect of the Acidic and Alkaline Activation of Bentonite-Like Clays on Sorption Properties in Relation to Fe3+ Ions under Static Conditions.

A study is performed of the effect the means of activation of bentonite-like clays (acidic, alkaline, combined) have on the adsorption characteristics of Fe³⁺ ions under static conditions. The mechanism of the acidic and alkaline activation of montmorillonite is identified and found to depend on the concentration of the activating agent. Solutions of sulfuric acid and lithium hydroxide are used as activating agents. It is shown that during combined treatment of enriched clay which includes activation with sulfuric acid and lithium hydroxide, its sorption capacity grows by 2.0–9.4 times, in relation to Fe³⁺ ions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]