Application of Response Surface Method for Optimization of Eriochrome Black T Removal by Adsorption

This study used Response Surface Methodology (RSM) to optimize Eriochrome Black T adsorption on activated carbon. Based on the Design of Experiments approach, static and static-stirred experiments were planned and conducted. Each set had 15 experiments and three replications at the center point. Experiments were conducted at room temperature with no pH adjustments. In static conditions, the maximum removal efficiency was 63.01%, while in static-stirred conditions, it was 78.18%. MINITAB 17.1.0 was used to analyze and interpret the experimental results. Linear, factorial, quadratic, and cubic statistical models were developed to describe static and static-stirred process parameter interactions. In addition, 3-D response surface plots and 2-D contour plots were used to show parameter efficiency. The RSM analysis of process parameters and their influence on retention yield increased removal efficiencies up to 85.20% in the static regime and to complete removal in the static-stirred regime, demonstrating optimization's ability to improve process performances.