Evaluation of trichloroethylene degradation by starch supported Fe/Ni nanoparticles via response surface methodology

In this study, degradation of trichloroethylene (TCE), a chlorinated hydrocarbon, using starch supported Fe/Ni nanoparticles was investigated. The scanning electron microscope images showed applying water soluble starch as a stabilizer for the Fe/Ni nanoparticles tended to reduce agglomeration and discrete particle. Also the mean particle diameter reduced from about 70 nm (unsupported Fe/Ni nanoparticle) to about 30 nm. Effects of three key independent operating parameters including initial TCE concentration (10.0-300.0 mg L(-1)), initial pH (4.00-10.00) and Fe(0) dosage (0.10-2.00) g L(-1) on TCE dechlorination efficiency in 1 hour were analysed by employing response surface methodology (RSM). Based on a five-level three-factor central composite design, TCE removal efficiency was examined and optimized. The obtained RSM model fitted the experimental data to a second order polynomial equation. The optimum dechlorination conditions at initial TCE concentration 100.0 mg L(-1) were initial pH 5.77, Fe(0) dosage 1.67 g L(-1). At these conditions TCE removal concentration reached 94.87%, which is in close acceptance with predicted value by the RSM model.