Experiments with batch tests in laboratory were conducted utilizing Massape Paulistana vermiculite as adsorbent and aqueous solutions containing 6,3 x 10-3, 12,5 x 10-3 and 25,1 x 10-3 mols.dm-3 of each of the bivalent cations, Cd(II), Ni(II), Pb(II), Hg(II), and 4,2 x 10-3 , 8,4 x 10-3 e 16,8 x 10-3 mols.dm-3 of Cr(III) at pH conditions of 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and contact time of 10, 30, 60, 120, 240, 360 minutes. It was observed that retention was dependent on pH, except for Cr(III) and that 4 hours were enough to reach equilibrium conditions for all studied cations. At such conditions, an experiment was also conducted using wastewater effluents from a chemical laboratory. Criteria for metal tolerable levels were observed according São Paulo State Regulations for environmental control of wasterwater discharges.
Massapé Paulistana vermiculite; metals adsorption; batch saturation test
