<b>Statistical design of experiments for optimizing the batch conditions to nickel desorption on <em>Sargassum filipendula</em> seaweed</b> - DOI: 10.4025/actascitechnol.v31i2.989

Abstract

In order to conduct a study on the effect of important design parameters in nickel desorption from the macroalgae Sargassum filipendula, four agents were tested in sets of full 2³ factorial designs (eluant agent, nickel load, initial acid concentration and solid:liquid ratio). Two responses were analyzed: the amount desorbed for the agents and the weight loss during the desorption process. The results showed that all factors were significant in both responses. Additionally, several interactions among the factors were also significant. Analyzing the contribution of each factor, it was verified that the best operational conditions were obtained for eluents H₂SO₄/MgSO₄, at the highest tested concentration, highest nickel load and lowest solid:liquid ratio. In this configuration, the results obtained with the desorption (%) was greater than 95%, making the biosorption process very interesting in the treatment of nickel solutions. Once regenerated, the Sargassum filipendula biomass can be used in subsequent biosorption cycles, lowering biomass costs and facilitating the treatment process that does not require successive biomass changes.