Removal of Erichrome Black T from Aqueous Solution using Yam Peel Activated Carbon

Abstract

The present study was carried to evaluate the adsorption potential of yam peel activated carbon as adsorbent for the removal of Erichrome Black T (EBT). The adsorbent was characterized using Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM).The Adsorption was carried out as a function of adsorbent dosage, contact time, initial concentration, pH and temperature using batch method. Equilibrium data were analyzed through isotherms, kinetic and thermodynamic modelling. The experimental adsorption isotherm data fitted well with Freudlinch in comparison to the other models tested. The n values obtained were greater than one indicating a favorable physical adsorption. The mean free energy (Ea.) from D-R was found to be <8 kJ/mol indicating physiosorption of the adsorbate onto adsorbent. Kinetics data were analyzed using pseudo first order, pseudo second order Elovich and intraparticle diffusion models. The results revealed that the adsorption was best described by pseudo second order model. Study of the thermodynamic behavior revealed a negative value of ΔG and positive values of ΔH and ΔS indicating spontaneous and endothermic nature of the adsorption process. The results of this study reveal that the yam peel can be utilized as a good adsorbent for the removal of dye from aqueous solution.