Enhanced removal of golden XGL dye by clay composites: batch and column studies

The adsorption potential of native clay and clay composites was investigated for Golden XGL dye removal from aqueous solution in batch and fixed-bed column modes. Morphological structure and functional groups of the adsorbent were determined by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analysis. In batch adsorption studies maximum adsorption capacity was determined by optimization of operational parameters, i.e., pH, adsorbent dose, contact time, initial dye concentration, and temperature. The effects of initial dye concentration, adsorbent bed height, and influent flow rate on fixed-bed column adsorption breakthrough curves were also evaluated. The obtained data was analyzed by the application of different equilibrium and kinetic models. Adsorption of Golden XGL dye onto native clay and clay composites was spontaneous, exothermic, and had great affinity between the adsorbate and adsorbent. The findings of this study revealed that clay composites are a potential adsorbent for cationic dye pollution remediation.