TAGUCHI APPROACH FOR OPTIMIZATION OF OPERATIONAL PARAMETERS FOR MAXIMIZATION OF DEFLUORIDATION USING NOVEL BIOSORBENT DEVELOPED FROM COCONUT (COCOS NUCIFERA) ROOT

摘要

Experimental approach with statistical design provides highly efficient and easier approach for optimization of process parameters. This paper deals with the application of Taguchi approach to optimize influencing operating parameters for maximizing removal of fluoride under batch experimental studies by using biosorbent developed from Cocos nucifera root. The optimized conditions were found at pH 7, initial concentration 5 mg/L, contact time 120 minutes, biosorbent dose 10 g/L, and temperature 30℃. The percentage contribution of various process parameters is obtained in the successive sequence initial concentration 63.71% > adsorbent dose 15.39% > pH 11.39% > temperature 6.35% > contact time 3.15%. The equilibrium study indicates that the sorption of fluoride onto Cocos nucifera root adsorbent follows Langmuir isotherm with constants 'a' and 'b' calculated 1.953 mg/gm and 0.938 L/mg. The kinetic study with adsorption data suggested Pseudo-second order kinetic model as best fitting with kinetic constant k_2 0.298 g/mg.min. The thermodynamic study indicated the spontaneous and endothermic nature (ΔH=12.670 KJ/mol). Textual Properties and characterization of adsorbent was done using BET, FESEM-EDS, EDS layered imaging and FTIR to provide better insight into the process. Assessment of defluoridation efficiency of Cocos nucifera root biosorbent on fluoride contaminated groundwater showed encouraging results.