Process optimization studies of crystal violet dye adsorption onto novel, mixed metal Ni_0.5Co_0.5Fe₂O₄ ferrospinel nanoparticles using factorial design

Among various kinds of pollutants released into the environment, dyes are considered as one of the most hazardous contaminant. A mixed metal magnetic Ni_0.5Co_0.5Fe₂O₄ nanoparticles were successfully used as an adsorbent for the uptake of Crystal Violet (CV) dye from aqueous solution. A 2⁵ full factorial design was applied to investigate the effect of multiple process variables on the% dye removal efficiency. The experimental values were found to be in excellent conformity with the model predicted values. The optimum values of the tested parameters for maximum removal of CV dye from aqueous solution were obtained as follows: pH = 11.0; Initial concentration of dye = 13.57 mg/L; Adsorbent amount = 0.089 g; contact time = 35 min; and Temperature = 22 °C. The R² value 99.86% shows the satisfactory explanatory power of model. This may provide theoretical basis for further research and utilization of newly designed adsorbent for the uptake of various kinds of dyes from waste water.