Adsorption of crystal violet dye using Embelia schimperi biochar: optimization using response surface methodology

Area of Science:

• Environmental Chemistry
• Materials Science
• Adsorption Science

Background:

• Crystal violet (CV) is a widely used dye with significant environmental and health risks.
• Wastewater contamination by CV dye poses a threat to aquatic ecosystems and human health.
• Developing efficient and sustainable methods for CV dye removal is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the adsorption of crystal violet (CV) dye using Embelia schimperi biochar.
• To optimize the adsorption process for maximum CV removal efficiency.
• To evaluate the potential of Embelia schimperi waste as a low-cost adsorbent material.

Main Methods:

• Adsorption experiments were conducted using Embelia schimperi biochar as an adsorbent.
• Response Surface Methodology (RSM) with a central composite design was employed for optimization.
• Key parameters including adsorbent dosage, contact time, and pH were systematically varied.

Main Results:

• A quadratic model with R² of 0.98 accurately predicted CV removal.
• Optimal conditions for CV removal were determined as 0.11 g adsorbent dosage, 60 min contact time, and pH 7.5.
• The model predicted a maximum CV removal efficiency of 98% at a desirability of 1.0.

Conclusions:

• Spent Embelia schimperi biochar is a highly effective and low-cost adsorbent for crystal violet dye.
• The study demonstrates the feasibility of utilizing agricultural waste for environmental remediation.
• Optimized adsorption conditions provide a practical approach for industrial wastewater treatment.