An optimization study using response surface methods on the decolorization of Reactive Blue 19 from aqueous solution by ultrasound

The decolorization of reactive dye C.I. Reactive Blue 19 from aqueous solution was studied by using ultrasound, activated carbon and combined ultrasound/activated carbon. The combined effects of independent variables, such as ultrasound power, temperature, time, activated carbon concentration, dye concentration and initial pH were investigated on the decolorization by using the central composite design. The decolorization of RB 19 was modelled statistically and optimized by means of the Matlab computer software. The decolorization were accomplished at optimum conditions by using ultrasound, activated carbon and combined ultrasound/activated carbon as 36%, 91% and 99.9%, respectively. The application of ultrasonic irradiation was found to be beneficial for decolorization of RB 19 from aqueous solution by adsorption.