Process optimization studies of malachite green dye adsorption onto areca husk carbon using response factorial design

A. Basker, P. S. Syed Shabudee

Abstract

In this study, a factorial experimental design technique was used to investigate the adsorption of malachite green (MG) from waste water onto Areca Husk Carbon (AHC). There is a growing interest in using low-cost and commercially available materials for the adsorption of dyes. The main and interaction effects of three different experimentally controlled environmental factors like pH, Particle Size and temperature are investigated through the model equations designed by a factorial design. The experimental factors and their respective levels that were selected include a pH of 4-9, particle size of 100-250 BSS mesh, and a temperature of 300-320 K. The results were analyzed statistically using the t-test, ANOVA, F-test and lack of fit to define most important process variables affecting the percentage MG removal.