MOUMITA PODDAR AND S. SHANTHAKUMAR
Abstract
In the present study, Magnesium Chloride and Gulmohar Plant (Delorix regia) leaf powder was used as adsorbent for the removal of different types of synthetic dyes (viz. Methylene Blue, Procion Brill Blue and Eriochrome Black-T) from aqueous solution in order to identify its ability to remove colour from wastewater by adsorption. The colour removal efficiency for the synthetic dye solutions was compared using two adsorbents through two experimental parameters such as effect of adsorbent dosage and pH by conducting batch experiments as these are the two main parameters which determine maximum colour removal. The effect of adsorption of Magnesium Chloride with addition of equal dosage of coagulant Calcium Hydroxide was studied. It was observed from the studies that the adsorption of dyes is a gradual process and a greater percentage of dye can be removed with biodegradable Gulmohar Plant leaf powder at higher dosage than with Magnesium Chloride under favourable condition for all dyestuffs tested. The Gulmohar Plant leaf powder is more economical and ecofriendly as there is no sludge production in the treatment process.