Optimization using central composite design (CCD) for the biosorption of Cr(VI) ions by cross linked chitosan carbonized rice husk (CCACR)

The presence of heavy metals in aqueous streams arising from the discharge of industrial effluents into water bodies is one of the most important environmental issues because of their toxic nature and its removal is highly essential. This paper deals with the adsorption studies for the removal of hexavalent chromium ions from aqueous solutions using Schiff based chitosan activated carbonized rice husk composites as adsorbent. The activation and surface properties of the adsorbent were characterized by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and Brauner Emmet and Teller (BET) analyzer. Central Composite Design (CCD) was used to optimize the process variables such as initial metal ion concentration, adsorbent dosage and pH of the solution on the performance of percentage removal and adsorption capacity. The experimental data were validated with different isotherms and kinetic models to evaluate the solute interaction behavior and nature of adsorption.