Optimization of the Preparation Conditions for Activated Carbon from Locust Bean Pod (Parkia biglobosa) using Factorial Design Approach

Abstract

This study focused on the optimization of the preparation parameters (impregnation concentration, activation temperature and activation time) on the yield and adsorption potential of activated carbon (AC) prepared from Locust bean pod (Parkia biglobosa) using the chemical activation method based on factorial design. The two linear regression models developed from the factorial experimental design using Design Expert Software – 6.0.8 was used to determine the optimum production conditions required to provide a compromise between the AC yield and methylene blue (MB) removal efficiency from aqueous solution. The results demonstrated maximum AC yield of 41.6% and MB removal efficiency of 95.4% under the following optimum preparation conditions; H3PO4 impregnation concentration (60 %), activation temperature (444.4 oC) and activation time (30 min). This study showed that the experimental values obtained were in good agreement with the values predicted from the models under the applied conditions.