Process Optimization for Turbidity Removal from Paint Wastewater Using Bio-Coagulant
Keywords:
Coag-flocculation, okra pod powder, pollutants, optimization, response surface methodologyAbstract
Coag-flocculation process was used to treat paint wastewater with okra pod powder (OPP) as coagulant. The proximate analysis of the coagulant was carried out according to AOAC standard method. Percentage moisture, ash, fat, crude protein, crude fiber and carbohydrate content were determined for both coagulants. Jar test experiments were employed for the coag-flocculation process and response surface methodology (RSM) was used to optimize the process. A box-Behnken design (BBD) of Design Expert 9.0.6 was used to evaluate the effects and interactions of coagulant dosage, pH and stirring time on the treatment efficiency. The optimal conditions obtained were coagulant dosage of 100.53mg/L, pH of 2.001 and stirring time of 24.47mins with 90.44% turbidity removal (desirability value of 1.0). This shows that the response surface methodological approach was appropriate for optimizing the coag-flocculation process in turbidity removal in paint wastewater.