Improved sorption of reactive black 5 by date seed-derived biochar: isotherm, kinetic, and thermodynamic studies

ABSTRACT

In the present investigation, date seed-derived biochar was applied as economic and effective sorbent for remediation of reactive dye from contaminated solutions. Biochar produced at 350°C through pyrolysis process exhibited reactive black 5 (REB5) sorption capacity 2.7 times higher than virgin date seeds. The surface of biochar was analyzed through Fourier transform infrared and scanning electron microscope data. The maximum REB5 uptake determined through the Langmuir model was found to be 113.4 mg/g. The REB5 sorption kinetics were accurately described by the pseudo-first-order model than pseudo-second-order model. Thermodynamic parameters indicated that REB5 sorption was spontaneous, feasible, and endothermic process.

KEYWORDS:

• Dye effluent
• date seeds
• reactive dye
• remediation
• sorption