Experimental Optimization for Cu Removal from Aqueous Solution Using Neem Leaves Based on Taguchi Method

This research focuses on understanding biosorption process and developing a cost effective technology for treatement of heavy metals-contaminated domastic water. A new biosorbent has been prepared by crushing of neem leaves. The experiments were designed according to Taguchi’s (L16) orthogonal array to optimize experimental runs. In order to assess the biosorption behavior of neem leaves satisfying multiple performance measure, Taguchi approach has been adopted. The biosorption tests were carriedout using Avanta Flame atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS) apparatus with five process parameters, pH values, initial Cu concentration, contact time, leaf particle size and agitation rate. Analysis of variance was applied to determine the significant parameters that effect biosorption. The results indicated thast the % of metal removal was influenced primarily by pH value (80.68%), the initial Cu ion concentration (7.74%), and contact time (5.50 %) and both agitation and particle size have little significant influence on % of material removal rate.