Batch and Packed Bed Column Studies of Azo Dyes Adsorption from the Aqueous Solutions Using Activated Sugarcane Bagasse Charcoal Adsorbent: Isotherm and Kinetic Studies

Biosorption of azo dyes (RO-16, RB-120 & RB-19) from the aqueous solutions was investigated using the activated sugarcane bagasse charcoal adsorbent. The characteristics of the prepared adsorbent were analyzed by SEM, EDX, FTIR, XRD, TG & DT analysis, and the BET surface area of the sugarcane bagasse adsorbent was examined by N2 adsorption and desorption techniques. Batch adsorption studies were performed to determine the optimum pH, azo dye concentration, sugarcane dose & temperature, and both Langmuir & Freundlich isotherm studies fit well with the adsorption process. Packed bed column adsorption studies confirmed the earlier breakthrough of the adsorption process, and the column adsorption studies fitted with Thomas, Yoon-Nelson, BDST and Adams-Bohart models. The desorption studies were conducted by adding various concentrations of sulfuric acid, and regeneration of spent azo dyes was done by different cycles.