The batch removal of basic and reactive dyes from aqueous solution using ethylenediamine tetraacetic acid modified rice husk (ERH) was studied. Plackett-Burman design coupled with response surface methodology (11SM) were adopted to evaluate the effect of various operating parameters, such aspH (2-10), contact time (5-420 mins) andsorbent dosage (0.05-0.2g) on the percentage of dye removal. The optimum adsorption conditions for Methylene Blue were determined as pH: 8.6, contact time: 131 mins and sorbent dosage: 0.13g. As for Reactive Orange 16, a greater uptake was observed at a lower pH. The empirical model developed from the interactive effects of important operating variables was validated using ANOVA analysis. The percentage uptakes predicted by the model are in good agreement with the experimental values, thus confirming the reliabilily of the models
