Parameter optimization for nitrate removal from water using activated carbon and composite of activated carbon and Fe2O3 nanoparticles

Due to the high solubility of nitrate in water, it is the most widespread contaminant in drinking water sources. In this study, activated carbon (AC) and a composite of activated carbon and Fe 2 O 3 nanoparticles (Fe-AC) were used for nitrate removal from water. AC and Fe-AC adsorbents were characterized using BET, SEM, FTIR and XRF analysis. The main operating parameters such as initial concentration ( C 0 ), adsorbent dosage and pH have been optimized for maximum nitrate removal. Experimental design was carried out using Central Composite Design (CCD) with response surface methodology (RSM). Based on RSM analysis, the nitrate removal models proved to be highly significant with very low probability values (