Optimization of Process Parameters for Adsorption of Hexavalent Chromium from Wastewater Using Response Surface Methodology

Abstract

This study investigated the optimization of process parameters for adsorption of hexavalent chromium with activated carbons extracted from palm tree leaves of Nigerian origin. The effect of process parameters such as adsorbent dosage, initial chromium concentration, temperature, contact time, and adsorbent particle size was studied with the aid of Central Composite Design. The result showed that for the adsorbent dosage, initial concentration, temperature, contact time, and particle size, the optimum conditions were found to be 20 mg, 80 mg/l, 40° C, 40 minutes, and 1400µm, respectively. The actual and predicted values obtained were 72.96 % as well as 70.33 %, respectively, indicating a good correlation with a comparatively small variance of 2.66 %. The Langmuir isotherm showed an R² of 0.981 and thereby showing better linearity when compared with the Freundlich isotherm. The result of the adsorption kinetics indicated that it was better described by the Pseudo-second order model. The overall adsorption process on the other hand showed an exothermic reaction with an enthalpy value of -18.707. The values of Gibbs free energy (∆G) at various temperatures also revealed a spontaneous reaction and a positive value of entropy. The results obtained showed that the adsorbent was effective in the adsorption of hexavalent chromium.