Adsorptive Removal of Direct Blue 86 by Coconut Coir Activated Carbon

Activated carbon was prepared from coconut coir and adsorption of textile dye Direct Blue 86 on 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 2 h and maximum adsorption occurred at pH 2. Adsorption capacity of the activated carbon for the dye was evaluated by batch equilibrium test and compared with that of a commercial activated carbon. The adsorption data at optimum pH 2 for both activated carbons is well described by the Freundlich isotherm model and the coconut coir activated carbon showed higher adsorption capacity for Direct Blue 86. Coconut coir activated carbon is a suitable substitute for commercial activated carbon in the removal of direct dyes from aqueous solution.