Optimization of experimental conditions using central composite design for rifampicin removal

Abstract

This research aims to optimize the impact of parametric conditions on the adsorption process of rifampicin, a drug used in tuberculosis treatment. The study specifically focuses on activated carbon derived from waste generated by a food processing facility, namely cacao shells (CS). Referred to as ACAFW (Activated Carbon Alimentary Factory Waste), the study utilizes a three-factor central composite design (CCD) experimental approach. The investigation is further connected to a parametric study aimed at verifying the effectiveness of the CCD model. Optimal treatment conditions were identified, including a pH of 6, an adsorbent dose of 0.3 g, and an antituberculosis concentration of 10 mg/L. These conditions demonstrated a close alignment between the obtained results (pH of 5.96, ACAFW dose of 0.328 g, and rifampicin concentration of 11.64 mg/L). The study employs a combination of the density functional theory (DFT) approach and infrared (IR) analysis to unravel the structure of rifampicin. Additionally, differential thermal analysis/thermogravimetry (DTA/TG) and Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) analyses were conducted on the material. ACAFW showcased surface areas exceeding 1394 m²/g, and a microporous volume of 0.400 cm³/g. The results from the kinetic study imply that the adsorption process is influenced by competition between internal and external diffusion.

Keywords:

• Rifampicin
• activated carbon alimentary factory waste (ACAFW)
• adsorption
• central composite design (CCD)

Acknowledgement

The authors would like to acknowledge University of Sciences and Technology (USTHB), Algeria, for providing instrument facilities to carry out this work.

Disclosure statement

The all authors declare that they have no conflict of interest.