ABSTRACT
Aim: To study the adsorption of Rose Bengal dye used in textile industries by Canna indica-chitin-alginate beads. Methodology: C. indica-chitin-alginate composite beads were prepared using root tubers of Canna indica, chitin from shrimp shells and sodium alginate. Batch adsorption of Rose Bengal dye was carried out with optimized parameters like pH, contact time, adsorbent dosage and dye concentrations. Characterization studies like SEM, FTIR and TGA and reusability of composite beads were also studied. Results: The maximum adsorption of 97.9% was obtained at pH 6, 80 min contact time with the optimized ratio of 1:1:0.05 C. indica-chitin-alginate towards 100 mg l-1 dye concentration. The SEM analysis showed a porous surface morphology whereas FTIR results exhibited the functional groups of Rose Bengal dye and composite beads, proving successful adsorption. Thermogravimetric analysis revealed that the composite beads could withstand a maximum temperature of 300oC. Interpretation: It is inferred from the study that a biosorbent prepared from a commonly available plant and shells of shrimp, which is considered as a waste, can be effectively used in the adsorption of harmful textile dyes from the effluent in an eco-friendly and cost-effective way.