Optimization by Experimental Design of Copper Adsorption on Natural Clay

Abstract

Natural clay from the Felix geothermal area was used to assess the possible removal of heavy metals from wastewaters. Several experimental conditions, including pH, contact time and temperature, depending on the initial concentration were studied. The design of experiments method was applied in order to get the highest percentage of adsorbed copper. The factorial experiments were performed according to the matrix program developed by Design Expert. The obtained mathematical model assessed the optimal values of the factors that influence the adsorption of copper, taking into account maximum productivity, as well as economic criteria. The estimated values were in accordance with the experimental research.