Optimization of Hexavalent Chromium Removal from Aqueous Solution by Ascorbic Acid Treated Sugarcane Bagasse

The study focuses on developing an effective adsorbent for the removal of Hexavalent chromium from aqueous solutions. It utilizes chemically modified sugarcane bagasse cellulose, enhanced with ascorbic acid, as the adsorbent material. A comprehensive model was established to examine both the individual and combined effects of different variables on the adsorption process, employing a central composite rotatable experimental design rooted in response surface methodology (RSM). The model underwent experimental verification and statistical validation through analysis of variance (ANOVA) before determining the optimal conditions for Hexavalent chromium removal. The optimal parameters identified were an initial Hexavalent chromium concentration of 100 ppm, a pH of 2, and a modified sugarcane bagasse dosage of 0.5 g/L. Under these conditions, an impressive removal rate of 162 mg/g of Hexavalent chromium was achieved. The findings were consistent with the optimization study, and the adsorption process was well described by the Langmuir model. This research highlights the potential of utilizing agricultural waste, modified in a straightforward manner, to create a cost-effective adsorbent for heavy metal removal from water. Nevertheless, some limitations were observed regarding the material’s reuse potential and its adsorption capacity in complex wastewater conditions.