Biosorption of methylene blue from aqueous solution by coconut (Cocos nucifera) shell-derived activated carbon-chitosan composite

Abstract

Charcoal produced from coconut shells through the retort method was consequently activated using CaCl2. The activated carbon-chitosan composite was prepared by coating the activated carbon with chitosan. Batch experiments with methylene blue as adsorbate were conducted under varying pH, contact time, initial dye concentration, adsorbent dosage, and temperature. The effects of these factors were investigated using batch adsorption studies with optimal conditions identified at pH 5, 30 min. contact time, 10 mg L-1 initial dye concentration, 9 g L-1 adsorbent dosage, and 25 °C adsorption temperature. Results of adsorption experiments showed that the composite had better removal efficiency compared to activated carbon. © 2018 Oriental Scientific Publishing Company. All Rights Reserved