Optimization of the column studies into the adsorption of basic dye using tartaric acid-treated bagasse

Previous batch studies have shown that acid treated bagasse is a potentially useful adsorbent for treating dye wastewaters. The present paper examines the use of tartaric acid-modified bagasse for the continuous adsorption of methylene blue (MB) dye in columns. The adsorbent was characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy. A 2(3) full factorial design analysis was carried out to screen the significant parameters that affecting the adsorption of MB dye onto tartaric acid-modified bagasse, namely initial MB concentration (100-300 mg/L), column bed height (40-80 mm), and feed flow rate (5-15 mL/min). The adsorption process was optimized using response surface methodology -central composite design with the help of Minitab((R)) 14 software. Maximum decolorization (99.42%) and chemical oxygen demand reduction (88.40%) could be achieved at 200 mg/L inlet MB dye concentration with 78 mm bed height and 3.5 mL/min of feed flow rate. Thomas and Yoon-Nelson models were in good agreement with the experimental results (r(2) > 0.91).