Process Optimization of Chitosan Adsorption of Methylene Blue Dye from Aqueous Solution Using a Central Composite Design
Keywords:
Chitosan, Methylene Blue, Adsorption, Response Surface, Central Composite DesignAbstract
This study investigates the potential of commercial chitosan, a natural and eco-friendly biosorbent, for the removal of methylene blue (MB) dye from synthetic wastewater. Experiments were designed and optimized using central composite design (CCD) to evaluate the interactive effects of initial dye concentration (6.39–12.79 mg/L) and contact time (10–120 min) on removal efficiency. Statistical analysis (ANOVA) revealed that the quadratic model was highly significant (F-value = 128.88, p-value = 0.0002) with an excellent coefficient of determination (R² = 0.9938) and adjusted R² = 0.9861, indicating strong agreement between experimental and predicted values. The derived quadratic equation accurately described the relationship between the variables. Optimization results showed that the maximum MB removal efficiency of 71.74% was achieved at an initial MB concentration of approximately 7.17 mg/L and a contact time of approximately 103.81 min. These findings confirm that chitosan is a promising, low-cost, biodegradable adsorbent for cationic dye removal, offering a sustainable solution for industrial wastewater treatment.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Ojiabo Kenechukwu Theresa, Ajayi Eshiorenoya David, Nwokoma Patience, Okafor Nicholas Nwankwo (Author)
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