Application of AzollaFiliculoides Biomass in Acid Black 1 Dye Adsorption from Aqueous Solution

Background and purpose: The textile dyes are considered as important pollutants due to the toxicity on human and environment. Therefore, the dye removal from industrial effluents is necessary. This study evaluates the ability of Azolla for the adsorption of acid black 1 (AB1) dye from aqueous solution. Materials and Methods: This was an experimental-laboratory study. The Azolla biomass was sun dried, crushed and sieved to particle sizes in the range of 1-2 mm. Then, it treated with 0.1 M HCl for 5 h, followed by washing with distilled water, and it used as an adsorbent. The effect of study parameter was investigated, and the residues AB1 concentration was measured by DR2800 spectrophotometer at in λmax = 622 nm. Results: The results indicated that the efficiency of AB1 adsorption decreased with increased initial dye concentration. It increased with increased contact time and adsorbent. The highest adsorption efficiency was occurred at pH = 2. The equilibrium data were the best fitted on Langmuir isotherm and pseudo-second-order kinetic model. Conclusion: The Azolla could present high ability in dye removal. Therefore, it can be used as inexpensive and effective adsorbent in textile effluent treatment.