Abstract
In this study, eggshell as a biomaterial was used as an adsorbent. This natural waste material is easy to access and cost-free. The surface of the eggshell with its porous structure showed affinity to adsorb damaging chemicals. In particular insecticides cause serious environmental pollution in agriculture, and this is a general problem all over the world. The aim was to remove insecticides from the environment and monitor the pesticides on the surface of eggshells by atomic force microscopy (AFM) images, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and UV/Vis spectroscopic techniques. Five types of eggshells, Denizli Hen, Coturnix Coturnix Japonica, Light Brahma Chicken, Alectoris Chukar and ISA Tinted -White, were used. Since they are commonly used, Cypermethrin, Deltamethrin and Indoxacarb were chosen as insecticide samples. The interaction effect of insecticides on the surface of eggshells was determined by AFM images; it was seen that the semispherical surface structures of the eggshells were flattened after adsorption. FTIR spectroscopy was used both to detect structural analysis and to determine the adsorption influence. In addition, UV-Vis spectroscopy was performed to evaluate the adsorption and desorption process. Porous media of different types of eggshells with an aqueous solution of insecticides had an electronegativity attractive surface which makes it an ideal adsorbent via hydroxyl groups.