Removal of Reactive Dyes from Aqueous Solution by Adsorption on Coconut Coir Activated Carbon

Activated carbon was prepared from coconut coir and adsorption of reactive dyes Remazol Red F-3B and Remazol Blue by the activated carbon was examined. Batch adsorption test showed that extent of dye adsorption was dependent on dye concentration, contact time, pH and carbon dose. Equilibrium adsorption was attained in 3 h and maximum adsorption occurred in the acidic pH range 1-3. Adsorption capacity of the activated carbon for the dyes was evaluated by batch equilibrium test and compared with that of a commercial activated carbon. According to Langmuir and Freundlich adsorption isotherms, the coconut coir activated carbon showed higher capacity for adsorption of Remazol Red F-3B than that of the commercial activated carbon. For Remazol Blue, both activated carbons showed comparable adsorption capacity. Coconut coir activated carbon is a suitable substitute for commercial activated carbon in the removal of reactive dyes from aqueous solution.