Optimization and Kinetic Studies of Nickel Treatment in the Electroplating Effluent with Activated Carbon Prepared from Rice Husk

摘要

The study was aimed at investigating the optimization and kinetic modelling of data in the treatment of nickel contained in the electroplating effluent with activated carbon prepared from rice husk in a batch operation. The initial Ni (II) ion concentration in the effluent was found to be in the range of (10-50 mg/L). Values of pH (4-8), adsorbent dosage (0.3-0.9 g) and temperature (30-70°C) were chosen as the process variables for optimization. A 5 level 4 variable central composite design was used to evaluate the effects of these parameters on the adsorption of Ni (II) ions on activated carbon prepared from rice husk (ACRH). After the process of optimization, it was seen that there was significant interaction among the process variables studied. Pseudo first order, pseudo second order and intra-particle diffusion models were used to test the kinetic data. The rate controlling parameter and effective diffusion coefficient were calculated using the Reichenberg plot. Particle and film diffusion turned out to be the rate determining steps at lower and higher concentrations of Ni (II) solution respectively.