Taguchi Optimization Studies for Abatement of 2-Chlorophenol Using Neem Seed Activated Carbon

The abatement of 2-chlorophenol (2CP) was carried out by an adsorption process using an economical, yet efficient activated carbon prepared from neem seeds activated carbon (NAC) as the adsorbent. The aim was to optimize the process parameters for 2CP adsorption onto NAC using Taguchi's optimization. An L-9 orthogonal array was used for the optimization studies of the process parameters. The signal-to-noise ratio and F-test values were the basis for selecting the significant parameters. The NAC was characterized using Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET), spectroscopic, microscopic, and X-ray diffraction analysis. The BET surface area was found to be 246 m(2)g(-1). Following the optimal conditions, an uptake capacity of 41 mg g(-1) was observed. Finally, the regeneration studies revealed that the adsorption ability of NAC remained intact for up to three regeneration cycles.