Factorial design of experiments in the determination of adsorption equilibrium constants for basic methylene blue using biopolymer

Abstract

Equilibrium conditions in the adsorption of a basic dye on Chitosan were studied. The Factorial Design methods and Analysis of Variance have been applied in the experimental determination of adsorption equilibrium constants. Factorial design with three levels of temperature (30 °C, 45 °C, 60 °C), pH (6.7, 8.1, 9.5), particle size (0.177 mm, 0.914 mm, 1.651 mm) was used in identification of significant effects and interactions in the calculation of the equilibrium constants. The dye adsorption capacity of chitosan was found to increase by decreasing the particle size and increasing temperature and pH. The methodology identifies the principal experimental variables, which have the greatest effect on the adsorption process.