FT-IR and ATR-FTIR studies of sludge (CETP) before and after adsorption of dyes from aqueous solution

FTIR and ATR-FTIR techniques have been used for the determination of different functional groups present in the sludge from common effluent treatment plant (CETP) before and after adsorption. Sludge is activated at 200°C for 1 hour and used as an adsorbent for the removal of Brilliant Green, Malachite Green and Crystal Violet dyes from aqueous solution. FTIR spectra of the sludge (CETP) before and after adsorption have been compared in the wave number range 400-4000 cm−1. FTIR studies show the presence of major functional groups OH, NH, COOH, C=C which may act as a possible active site for adsorption and structural changes which occur after activation and adsorption of dyes. Our studies show that the sludge contains monosaccharides, peptides, proteins and fats.