# Adsorptive Detoxification of Congo Red and Brilliant Green Dyes Using Chemically ProcessedBrassica Oleracea Biowaste from Waste Water

Authors: Ayesha Kanwal; Rabia Rehman; Muhammad Imran
Journal: Adsorption Science & Technology
 (2022)

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## Abstract

Water pollution being a potential risk to mankind is treated in several ways which includes chemical treatments. Among them, adsorption took a prominent position for the removal of many hazardous dyes from waste water. Here in this study, an environment-friendly, inexpensive, and broadly available leaves ofBrassica oleracea were utilized for adsorption of two carcinogenic dyes, i.e., Congo red and brilliant green. The adsorbent Brassica oleracea leaves were collected, dried, and characterized by FTIR and SEM and then utilized in batch manner for dye removal. Isothermal modeling was carried out on data obtained after experiment which show the best fitting of Langmuir with qmax 42.553 and 103.093 mg.g-1 for Congo red (CR) and brilliant green (BG), respectively. Consequently, a homogenous, monolayer mode of adsorption was followed. Kinetic modeling supported pseudosecond order and Elovich model in most suitable manner. It was also found that a spontaneous, exothermic process provided by the values of thermodynamic parameters (∆G°, ∆H°, and ∆S°) was calculated.


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## Body

## 1. Introduction

Water pollution is one of the major risks for our planet earth. It is established that about 70-80% of water-related issues in emerging countries are associated with industries, which produce tones of colored effluents in their discharge going directly into water bodies [1]. Almost 40000 pigments and dying agents are already found in industrial wastes [2–4]. About 10000 tons per annum of textile dyes are used in industries and along with printing industry, it makes 10-15% of total dying agents released in water bodies [3, 5, 6]. All these effluents coming out of industries cause severe damage to the ecosystem especially in these water bodies. Whenever this polluted water is consumed by humans for daily shore, it causes life-threatening damage towards human health as it is responsible for high mutation index and results into different kinds of cancers [4, 5].Previous literature revealed many hazardous effects of water containing dyes like brilliant green and Congo red which includes cancers of different types, skin diseases, gastrointestinal poisoning, and also issues related to respiratory system in humans [6, 7]. Minor concentration of such dyes in water cannot be overlooked because even 0.005 ppm of such dyes in water can interfere in light path which results into inefficient photosynthesis by the aquatic plants and rest of the ecosystem suffers as a result. Hence, the dye removal is a must before throwing all the effluents directly into water bodies [8].Various in-practice traditional methods that include photochemical, biological, and chemical treatments [9–11] are in practice for the removal of such effluents, such as ozonation [12], coagulation [13], fungal decolorization [14–16], adsorption, flocculation, and electrochemical technique [17, 18]. All these techniques are efficient in one way or the other but are complicated and problematic towards various environmental aspects being expensive and produce several hazardous by-products [19, 20]. So, adsorption techniques emerged as the most suitable method among all these in response to its availability (of adsorbent), efficiency, and cost effectiveness. A number of different adsorbents have been used both as raw as well as chemically modified for the removal of dyes, i.e., brilliant green and Congo red (Figure 1).Figure 1
Structural formulas of brilliant green (BG) and Congo red (CR).Brassica oleracea commonly known as cauliflower is an annual plant which belongs to family Brassicaceae. It grows in sunny and moist climate in temperature range of 21-29°C [21]. In recent years, 25.5 million tons of Brassica oleracea was produced globally. 92% of it is composed of water and carbohydrates along with some essential vitamins. Apart from all this, it contains number of nonnutrient phytochemicals and dietary fibers [22]. From decades, brassica is a part of major cuisines of the world but mostly its stalk and leaves are not used in cooking that goes directly into waste. It is also reported as anticancerous in nature by different researchers [23–25]. Current study Brassica oleracea is picked for adsorption of selected dyes, and its adsorption efficiency is studies under appropriate operation conditions.


## 2. Experimentation

### 2.1. Chemicals

All the chemicals as well as apparatus used were of analytical grades which include brilliant green dye (λmax=625nm), Congo red (λmax=498nm), HCl (11.6 M), NaOH (Mol. Wt. 40 g), and distilled water, and all of these were obtained from Sigma-Aldrich. Vis-spectrophotometer Electric Balance ER-120A, Electric grinder (Ken-Wood), pH meter (HANNA pH 211), and Electric shaker 721 were also used for this study.


### 2.2. Preparation Characterization of Biosorbent

The biosorbentBrassica oleracea is nontoxic and is available easily almost all parts of Punjab, Pakistan. The sample used in this particular study was acquired from the rural areas of Layyah district, Punjab. After collecting the leaves of Brassica oleracea (BO) ,it was thoroughly washed with tap water to remove all the dust trapped. Later on, it was trimmed and washed again with distilled water; then, the material was sundried for 8-10 days. This again was placed in oven at 80°C for 3 days to get rid of all the remaining moisture present in it. This dried sorbent material was then ground and sieved to 60-70 mesh size, and a fine powder was obtain [26]. To eliminate any remaining moisture, it was oven dried once again and then poured into air tight plastic jars to use it further. It is summarized in Figure 2.Figure 2
Schematic representation of the steps involving preparation of adsorbent. The biosorbent BO was characterized using various useful techniques, i.e., Boehm titration (to determine acidic and basic moieties) pH, and other physioanalytical data Table1 [27]. FTIR and SEM were also carried to get further understanding of the sorbent behavior.


### 2.3. Synthetic Waste Water Preparation

1000 ppm solutions of both brilliant green (BG) and Congo red (CR) dyes were prepared by adding 1 g per 1000 mL of distilled water in a measuring flask. All other solutions of dyes for further use were prepared by diluting this stock solution of 1000 ppm. For optimization of the parameters to determine the adsorption capacity of BO against dyes, 25 mL of each dye was taken in 100 mL flasks, and operational conditions were finalized.


### 2.4. Optimization of Operational Conditions

Various operational conditions were optimized to get better results in a batch adsorption technique. These operational parameters include the following: adsorbent dose (range 0.2-2 g with variation 0.2 g), pH (range 1-10), temperature (range 20-70°C), contact time (range 5-60 min), and agitation rate (range 40-240 rpm difference 40 rpm). To check the reliability of the adsorption results, isothermal and kinetic modeling was done for both the dyes. Following formulas were utilized to determine the % adsorption as well as amount of dye adsorbed for each dye.(1)%Adsorption=Co−CeCo×100,Q=Co−CeVW.Here,Q is the amount of dyes (mg/g), Co is the initial concentration (ppm), Ce represents equilibrium concentration of BG and CR, V represents volume (L), and W shows weight (g).


## 2.1. Chemicals

All the chemicals as well as apparatus used were of analytical grades which include brilliant green dye (λmax=625nm), Congo red (λmax=498nm), HCl (11.6 M), NaOH (Mol. Wt. 40 g), and distilled water, and all of these were obtained from Sigma-Aldrich. Vis-spectrophotometer Electric Balance ER-120A, Electric grinder (Ken-Wood), pH meter (HANNA pH 211), and Electric shaker 721 were also used for this study.


## 2.2. Preparation Characterization of Biosorbent

The biosorbentBrassica oleracea is nontoxic and is available easily almost all parts of Punjab, Pakistan. The sample used in this particular study was acquired from the rural areas of Layyah district, Punjab. After collecting the leaves of Brassica oleracea (BO) ,it was thoroughly washed with tap water to remove all the dust trapped. Later on, it was trimmed and washed again with distilled water; then, the material was sundried for 8-10 days. This again was placed in oven at 80°C for 3 days to get rid of all the remaining moisture present in it. This dried sorbent material was then ground and sieved to 60-70 mesh size, and a fine powder was obtain [26]. To eliminate any remaining moisture, it was oven dried once again and then poured into air tight plastic jars to use it further. It is summarized in Figure 2.Figure 2
Schematic representation of the steps involving preparation of adsorbent. The biosorbent BO was characterized using various useful techniques, i.e., Boehm titration (to determine acidic and basic moieties) pH, and other physioanalytical data Table1 [27]. FTIR and SEM were also carried to get further understanding of the sorbent behavior.


## 2.3. Synthetic Waste Water Preparation

1000 ppm solutions of both brilliant green (BG) and Congo red (CR) dyes were prepared by adding 1 g per 1000 mL of distilled water in a measuring flask. All other solutions of dyes for further use were prepared by diluting this stock solution of 1000 ppm. For optimization of the parameters to determine the adsorption capacity of BO against dyes, 25 mL of each dye was taken in 100 mL flasks, and operational conditions were finalized.


## 2.4. Optimization of Operational Conditions

Various operational conditions were optimized to get better results in a batch adsorption technique. These operational parameters include the following: adsorbent dose (range 0.2-2 g with variation 0.2 g), pH (range 1-10), temperature (range 20-70°C), contact time (range 5-60 min), and agitation rate (range 40-240 rpm difference 40 rpm). To check the reliability of the adsorption results, isothermal and kinetic modeling was done for both the dyes. Following formulas were utilized to determine the % adsorption as well as amount of dye adsorbed for each dye.(1)%Adsorption=Co−CeCo×100,Q=Co−CeVW.Here,Q is the amount of dyes (mg/g), Co is the initial concentration (ppm), Ce represents equilibrium concentration of BG and CR, V represents volume (L), and W shows weight (g).


## 3. Results and Discussions

### 3.1. Characterization of Adsorbent

FTIR spectrum ofBrassica oleracea leaves presented here shows a number of major functional groups present that it is responsible for the binding of dye onto the adsorbent (Figure 3). Here, the band at 3855 cm-1 and 3738 cm-1 indicates the presence of OH group along with carboxylic moieties at 3297 cm-1 while the bands at 2917 cm-1 and 2849 cm-1 show the presence of C–H functional moieties. The bands present at 1653 cm-1 and 1510 cm-1 indicate N-H stretching. Graph also shows a band at 1420 cm-1 which shows carboxylic bending frequency. Figure 3 presents the FTIR spectra of adsorbent BO before and after dye loading, BO, BO-CR, and BO-BG, respectively. Here, the shift in the region of 3855 and 3738 cm-1 to 3881 cm-1 (for CR) and 3898 cm-1 (for BG) depicts the involvement of OH bond because of hydrogen bonding between the molecules of adsorbent and dyes. Also, a clear change in wavenumber at carboxylic region from 3297 to 3281 cm-1 (Figure 3(b)) and 3288 cm-1 (Figure 3(c)) advocates the involvement of OH from carboxylic moiety. N-H stretching region shifts to 1639 and 1535 cm-1 in BO-CR and to 1636 and 1540 cm-1 in BO-BG spectrum, respectively. A hypsochromic shift in COOH bending peaks was also observed for CR 1374 cm-1 and for BG 1399 cm-1. These shifts in major functional moieties accompanied by oxygen containing groups advocate a clear interaction between adsorbent and dye molecules, as the involvement of such functional groups promotes adsorption of dyes on adsorbents [28].Figure 3
FTIR spectra of (a)Brassica oleracea (BO), (b) Congo red loaded Brassica oleracea (BO-CR), and (c) brilliant green loaded Brassica oleracea (BO-BG).The data given in Table1: the presence of small amount of moisture, volatile matter, and ash content indicates little particle density that favors adsorption over this particular biosorbent [29]. Porosity, i.e., number of pores per unit area, depicts good adsorption capacity. It is described that in case of some cationic dye adsorption occurs spontaneously due to presence of electrostatic interaction along with hydrogen bonding between the dye (cationic) and the adsorbent while for anionic dye adsorption hydrogen bonding play vital role [30].Table 1
Physioanalytical data ofBrassica oleracea (BO).
ParametersBO valuesBulk density (g.mL-1)0.505Dry density (g.mL-1)0.478Porosity (%)0.83Moisture3Ash99.7Volatile matter0.3Carboxylic acid1.98Phenols0.28Lactones0.01Basic sites1.93pHpzc8Elemental content (mg.Kg-1)C54.81%O38.89%Na1.75%Ca4.55%SEM image of the adsorbent BO shown in Figure4 represents the presence of rough and porous surface which always play effectively towards the adsorption of dye on to the adsorbent surface. More porous adsorbent surface have large physiosorption tendency to adsorb more dye molecules [31].Figure 4
SEM image of BO.


### 3.2. Operational Condition Optimization

pHpzc (point of zero charge) was measured for Brassica oleracea (BO) which turned out to be 8 that provides a strong basic medium for the adsorption of dyes. pHpzc actually helps in determining the sensitivity towards linear range of pH. It also reveals the surface-active centers and adsorption capacity of that adsorbent surface [30]. Literature has widely reported about the pHpzc of agriwaste by a number of researchers. Cationic dyes get more adsorption if pH>pHpzc, i.e., negative charge increases while anionic dyes get favorable adsorption condition if pH<pHpzc, i.e., positive surface charge increases [32, 33] (Figure 5(a)).Figure 5
Adsorption parameter for Congo red (CR) ( % age adsorption y- axis on the right hand side) and brilliant green (BG) ( % age adsorption y-axis on the left hand side) adsorption on Brassica oleresea (BO): (a) pHpzc, (b) contact time, (c) adsorbent dose, (d) pH influence, (e) agitation rate, and (f) temperature change.
(a)(b)(c)(d)(e)(f)Optimum time of contact of BO for both the cases, i.e., CR and BG shown in Figure5(b) which depicts optimum time for CR and BG is 30 and 40 minutes, respectively. Both the trends present a gradual increase in % age adsorption until their optimums were reached, and a downward trend started over there. Optimum adsorbent dose of BO for CR and BG was turned out to be 1 and 1.4 g, correspondingly. Figure 5(c) shows an increasing trend initially, and then the values of % age adsorptions decreased for both of the dyes. Values obtained from the procedure for optimum pH of Brassica oleracea present 1 and 7 pH for CR and BG, respectively (Figure 5(d)). Literature shows that Congo red (CR) is more likely to be adsorbed at acidic pH because of its anionic nature and interacts with adsorbent surface with electrostatic interaction [34]. This electrostatic interaction between the two decreases as the pH of the system gets more basic. It occurs because of the increase in negatively charged particles in the solution and attraction converts into electrostatic repulsion [35, 36]. On the other hand, BG acts as cationic dye and as literature states that cationic dyes show spontaneous adsorption because of growing number of positively charged particles. Hence, there occurs strong hydrogen bonding along with electrostatic attraction [37, 38].Agitation speed of BO for the removal of CR and BG was found to be 120 rpm and 100 rpm, respectively. Shaking speed of solution-containing adsorbent is related to the interaction of molecules between dye, and speeds higher than mentioned above were not suitable for this particular case as there occurs a clear decline in % age adsorption of dyes (Figure5(e)).Temperature optimization was also done for BO for both CR and BG dyes that turned out to be 40°C and 50°C. The higher temperature of the solution higher will be the diffusion rate of dye at the adsorbent surface that results into increased adsorption of the dye but as temperature increased over the optimum, a clear decline in the % age adsorption was observed. This decline is related to very high movements of molecules that reverses the adsorption process [10] indicated in Figure 5(f).


### 3.3. Adsorption Isothermal Studies

The relationship established between the adsorbate and adsorbent is determined by isothermal modeling. It also assessed the authenticity and mechanism of the experiment performed [39]. Following isothermal models were applied to get all this information, i.e., Langmuir, Freundlich, Temkin, and the Dubinin–Radushkevich isotherms.


#### 3.3.1. Langmuir Isotherm

It conveys about the relation between equilibrium concentration and the amount of adsorbate per unit weight of sorbent. Langmuir isotherm established on the idea that adsorption occurs as monolayer on homogenous surface of adsorbent [40]. Langmuir isothermal model (linear) given in Eq. (2) is as follows:
(2)1qe=1bqmax∙1Ce+1qmax,whereCe represents equilibrium concentration (mg/L) of BG and CR dyes, qmax is the maximum sorption capacity (monolayer) of sorbent, qe is the quantity of dye adsorbed (mg/g), and b is the sorption ability of the adsorbent. RL also known as separation factor is a dimensionless quantity which presents the probability of sorption. It is calculated by the equation (3):
(3)RL=11+KLCo,whereCo is the initial concentration of dyes, and KL represents Langmuir constant (L/mg).RL values of CR and BR dyes for the adsorption on BO are found to be 0.2789 and 0.4794 both the values are in between 0 and 1 that illustrates the feasibility or favorable condition for adsorption of dyes (Figure 6). Literature has given following cases for the value of RL: 0<RL<1 means the promising adsorption results, RL>1 means not favorable, RL=1 or RL=0 means linear adsorption, and if RL<0, it will be irreversible [41]. The value of RL for both the dyes mentioned above clearly shows effectual use of the Langmuir isothermal model. qmax is the maximum adsorption capacity for both the dyes CR and BR which are 42.55 and 103.09 mg.g-1 which indicated that the adsorption of BG dye is more favored on BO biosorbent rather than for CR (Table 2, Figure 6(a)), compared with literature in Table 3. It shows monolayer of dye gets adsorbed homogenously on the binding sites distributed over the surface of the adsorbent BO [42].Figure 6
Adsorption isotherms. A comparative plot of CR and BG for adsorption onBrassica oleracea BO. (a) Langmuir isotherm, (b) Freundlich isotherm, (c) Temkin isotherm, and (d) Dubini-Radushkevich isotherm.
(a)(b)(c)(d)Table 2
A summary of adsorption isothermal data of Congo red (CR) and brilliant green (BG) dyes adsorbed onBrassica oleracea (BO).
Isotherm modelCRBGLangmuirQm (mg.g-1)42.55103.09RL (L.mg-1)0.270.47b (L.g-1)0.040.01R20.990.99RMSE1.071.06Freundlichn1.411.131/n0.700.88Kf (mg.g-1)2.372.02R20.970.97RMSE1.380.95TemkinB (J.mol-1)6.775.32A (L.mg-1)0.701.09R20.990.98RMSE1.860.52D-RQm (mg.g-1)18.1713.03BD (mol2. (KJ2)-1)0.0000040.000002ED (KJ.mol-1)0.350.5R20.960.98RMSE2.101.2Table 3
Previously announced comparative adsorption capacity (qmax) data.
BiosorbentsAdsorption capacity (qmax) (mg.g-1)ReferencesDecoloration of Congo red dyeCoir pith activated carbon6.72[53]Cattail root38.9[54]Rice husk3.08[55]Banana peel18.2[56]Orange peel14[56]Cationic surfactant modified tea waste106.4[57]Jute stick powder35.7[58]Bael shell carbon98.03[59]Bamboo dust carbon101.9[60]Desiccated coconut waste48.8[61]Vernonia amygdalina leaf powder57.4[62]Brassica oleracea leaf powder42.55[this study]Decoloration of brilliant greenRice husk ash26.18[20]Watermelon peel25[63]Pomegranate peels nanoparticle24.57[64]Areca nut husk18.21[41]Date pit activated carbon77.8[7]Trapa natans peel citric acid treated128[65]Citrullus lanatus peel citric acid treated189[65]Citrullus colocynthis tartaric acid treated79.36[66]Cashew nut shell activated carbon243.9[67]Soybean straw-derived biochar83.33[68]Trapa natan50.51[34]Brassica oleracea leaf powder103.09[this study]


#### 3.3.2. Freundlich Isotherm

It is employed to determine multilayer, on-ideal heterogeneous adsorption pattern. This isotherm supports the idea of reversible adsorption on a rough adsorbent surface [43]. Equation Eq. (4) shows the linear for of Freundlich isothermal model
(4)logqe=logKF+1nlogCe,whereKF is known as Freundlich constant and represents biosorption ability, n is known to be frequency or strength of biosorption, and 1/n is actually related to heterogeneity of the adsorbent surface [44, 45]. The graph plotted between log qe vs. log Ce gave straight lines and by using intercept and slope of the graph values of n and KF which can be determined. The data given in Table 2 shows that the values of n for both the dyes CR and BG are found to be 1.419 and 1.138, correspondingly, which signify a good adsorption happened as 1<n<2 depicts good adsorption. Also, R2 happened to be higher in Langmuir’s case rather than for Freundlich that favors the previous one (Figure 6(b)).


#### 3.3.3. Temkin Isotherm

It validates the relative decrease of sorption energy. It says heat of adsorption (∆Hads) of adsorbent used, decline in linear fashion as the surface coverage of adsorbent increases [46]. Temkin isotherm advocates the veiled interaction among adsorbate and adsorbent. The linear equation (5) is given below:
(5)qe=BTlnCe+BTlnAT,whereAT is equilibrium binding constant (L/g), and BT represents Temkin isotherm constant (J/mol). This BT depicts that which type of interaction prevails between sorbent and dyes, i.e., physical or chemical. BT<8 favors physical association while BT>8 supports chemical connotation [47–49]. Data presented in Table 2 shows BT values for CR and BG, 6.778, and 5.323, respectively; both for CR and BG, BT values are below 8 which advocates the weak physical connotation between the sorbent BO and both the dyes CR and BG. Figure 6(c) shows graph between lnCe and qe. The values of R2 for the Temkin model are found to be less than Langmuir which depicts poor fitting of this model compared to that of Langmuir model.


#### 3.3.4. Dubinin–Radushkevich Isothermal Model

It is considered to be relatively broader than Langmuir and Freundlich isotherms. It contributes in determining adsorption energy and distinctive absorbency mechanism [50]. The equation given illustrates the biosorption of gases on adsorbents (especially microporous). This model supports the multilayer adsorption supported by Vander Waal’s forces [51]. Linear form D-R equation is (6) given below:
(6)lnqe=lnqn−BDε2,(7)ε=RTln1+1Ce.qe represents amount of CR and BG adsorbed, Ce presents equilibrium concentration, qm (mg/g) is known as D-R constant responsible degree of adsorption, ad BD (mol2 ⋅ kJ-2) is free energy and ε named as Polanyi potential. The mean free energy E (kJ.mol-1) can be calculated by eq. (8):
(8)E=12B.E is helpful for the interpretation of mechanism of adsorption, and its value determines the type of adsorption carried out, i.e., E<8 inclined to physiosorption, and 8<E<16 presents ion exchange process while E>16 favors chemisorption sort of adsorption [52]. The data staged in the table gives E visible less than 8 that eventually favors the physiosorption mechanism. E (mean free energy) for CR and BG is 0.35 and 0.5 (kJ.mol-1), correspondingly.All the adsorption isotherms applied, Langmuir, Freundlich, Temkin, and Dubinin-Radushkevish, and regression factorR2 is found be the highest for Langmuir isotherm that is why it is more likely to be followed.


### 3.4. Kinetic Studies

Biosorption rate of reaction was studied by applying the standard kinetic models which include Elovich, Lagergren pseudofirst order model, and Ho’s pseudosecond order model. To get the best fittin,g among them, percent relative deviation was measured by eq. (9):
(9)P%=100Nqeexp−qecalqeexp,whereqeexp is the experimental sorption ability (mg.g-1), qecal represents calculated value of sorption ability; it is obtained by using kinetic models, and N shows no. of observations [69].


#### 3.4.1. Elovich Model

It favors multiple coating of dye as it is based on the idea of exponential increase in adsorption, powered by the rise of sorption locations on adsorbent [70]. This model was first applied in favor of chemisorption process of gases [65]. Linear equation of the Elovich model is shown in eq. (10) [71]:
(10)qt=lna×bb+lntb,whereqtmg.g−1 is the amount of dye carried by adsorbent at any time t, ag.mg−1 shows rate of adsorption in the start of process, and bg.mg−1 presents the total no. of adsorption spots occupied by dye molecules. Higher the value of a, more it will support chemisorption. For this model, a plot of lnt vs. qt gives the values of Elovich constants using slope and intercept (Figure 7(a)).Figure 7
Comparative kinetic and thermodynamic studies plots for CR and BG dye removal by BO. (a) Elovich plot, (b) pseudofirst order, (c) pseudosecond order, (d) intraparticle diffusion model, (e) film diffusion model, and (f) thermodynamic parameters of CR and BG dyes.
(a)(b)(c)(d)(e)(f)


#### 3.4.2. Pseudofirst Order Model

It is also known as the Lagergren model which is recognized on the postulate that adsorption is comparable to the number of attaching sites for the dye on the adsorbent surfaces [72].
(11)lnqe−qt=lnqe−k1t,wherek1h−1 represents as rate constant, and qt and qe show amount of dye adsorbed at any moment of time t and at equilibrium, respectively. If the values of qe and qt have more difference (P), then this model becomes futile. Also, the -ive sign with value of P depicts that adsorption rate at equilibrium is more than any other time t along with this value of regression factor R2 which is also responsible to decide either this model is effective or not. Here, R2 value is quite less than 1; so, this model does not fit on adsorption data (Table 3, Figure 7(b)).


#### 3.4.3. Pseudosecond Order Model

Ho’s model is based on the statement that reaction rate of adsorption process is related to concentration of dye and square of attaching sites for dye on adsorbent surface [73, 74]. Following equation presents linear form of this model:
(12)tq=1k2qe2+tqe,wherek2 shows the rate constant for Ho’s model, and qe and qt depict adsorption ability at equilibrium and any time interval, correspondingly.Here, the lesser difference betweenqeexp and qecal approves the chemisorption type of adsorption; also, the value of P% is low along with higher correlation coefficient (R2) [75]. The values of R2 for CR and BR are found to be 0.994 and 0.996, correspondingly. The value is closer to unity which depicts that pseudosecond order is more likely to be followed (Table 4, Figure 7(c)).Table 4
A brief summary of kinetic parameters applied on adsorption of dyes on BO.
Kinetic modelCRBGElovicha (g.mg-1.min-1)0.893.58b (g/mg)94.161533663.33R20.9310.93RMSE0.0780.076Pseudofirst orderqe (exp) (mg.g-1)9.364.835qe (calc) (mg.g-1)3.001.2482K1 (min-1)-0.0021-0.0001225R20.930.97P (%)8.498.14RMSE2.872.27Pseudosecond orderK2 (g.mg-1 min-1)29.236.64qe (calc) (mg.g-1)9.665.52qe (exp) (mg.g-1)9.365.5t1/20.003540.03h (mg.g-1.Min-1)2728.48203.1R20.990.99P (%)-0.4-0.05RMSE0.240.16Intraparticle diffusionkid (mg.g-1.Min-1/2)0.64.53C (mg·g−1)5.520.14R20.970.99Film diffusionKfd (1/min-1)0.090.01R20.940.97


### 3.5. Adsorption Mechanism

To determine the mechanism followed by adsorption process, two different models were applied, i.e., intraparticle diffusion model and film diffusion model [76, 77].Intraparticle diffusion or Weber Morris model is presented as(13)qt=kipt1/2+C.Kip is known as coefficient of intraparticle diffusion, and C is called boundary layer influence.The plot (qt vs. t1/2) presenting straight line crossing the origin is clearly suggesting the intraparticle diffusion mechanism if not then film diffusion mechanism or Boyd’s mechanism will be followed (Figures 7(e) and 7(f)).Boyd’s model is built on partially attained equilibrium related to variable time as given below [78],
(14)F=1−63.14162exp−Bbt,Bb=−0.4997−ln1−qtqe,whereBb is Boyd’s constant while F represents partially attained equilibrium (qt/qe).R2 compared given in Table 3 for both CR and BG shows that intraparticle diffusion mechanism was followed.


### 3.6. Thermodynamic Studies

The variation in temperature of the adsorption system visibly affects the kinetic energy of the dyes, CR and BG. This factor speeds up rate of diffusion as the interaction of dye molecules occurs with porous and spongy surface. Certain operational parameters of thermodynamics, i.e., Gibbs free energy∆G°, change in entropy (∆S°), and change in enthalpy (∆H°) were utilized to determine the efficiency and adsorption rate of dyes CR and BG using Figure 7(f). Table 5 presents the values of ∆G°, ∆H°, and ∆S°, and -ive value of free energy and enthalpy of the system supports spontaneous and exothermic nature of reaction while +ive entropy of the system defends the randomness of adsorbent surface [76, 79, 80]. These were calculated by equation below:
(15)ΔG0=RTlnKD,Table 5
Thermodynamic parameters of dyes removal byBO.
AdsorbateTemp (K)KD=qe/Ce∆G° (kJ/Mol)∆H°(kJ/mol)∆S° (J/mol K)CR293.160.273.21-13.6635.94303.160.352.67313.160.392.46323.160.4881.92333.160.541.72343.160.611.39353.160.541.82BG293.161.44-0.89-6.1324.19303.161.67-1.29313.161.71-1.40323.161.97-1.82333.161.91-2.01343.162.15-2.72whereR is known as general gas constant, TK is the temperature, and KD is the distribution coefficient.
(16)KD=Ceqe.The value of∆H° ranging 2.1 to 20.9 kJ/mol is an emphasis on physiosorption while its value between 80 and 200 kJ/mol is due to stronger interface resulting chemisorption. A linear plot 1/T vs. ln KD presented in the figure which give the values of ∆G°, ∆H°, and ∆S°, using the following equation:
(17)ΔG°=ΔH°−T∆S°.Here, the value ofG is found to be negative along with H (negative), and S is found to be positive; all these factors show a spontaneous, exothermic adsorption reaction with positive entropy or randomness of the adsorption system [81].


## 3.1. Characterization of Adsorbent

FTIR spectrum ofBrassica oleracea leaves presented here shows a number of major functional groups present that it is responsible for the binding of dye onto the adsorbent (Figure 3). Here, the band at 3855 cm-1 and 3738 cm-1 indicates the presence of OH group along with carboxylic moieties at 3297 cm-1 while the bands at 2917 cm-1 and 2849 cm-1 show the presence of C–H functional moieties. The bands present at 1653 cm-1 and 1510 cm-1 indicate N-H stretching. Graph also shows a band at 1420 cm-1 which shows carboxylic bending frequency. Figure 3 presents the FTIR spectra of adsorbent BO before and after dye loading, BO, BO-CR, and BO-BG, respectively. Here, the shift in the region of 3855 and 3738 cm-1 to 3881 cm-1 (for CR) and 3898 cm-1 (for BG) depicts the involvement of OH bond because of hydrogen bonding between the molecules of adsorbent and dyes. Also, a clear change in wavenumber at carboxylic region from 3297 to 3281 cm-1 (Figure 3(b)) and 3288 cm-1 (Figure 3(c)) advocates the involvement of OH from carboxylic moiety. N-H stretching region shifts to 1639 and 1535 cm-1 in BO-CR and to 1636 and 1540 cm-1 in BO-BG spectrum, respectively. A hypsochromic shift in COOH bending peaks was also observed for CR 1374 cm-1 and for BG 1399 cm-1. These shifts in major functional moieties accompanied by oxygen containing groups advocate a clear interaction between adsorbent and dye molecules, as the involvement of such functional groups promotes adsorption of dyes on adsorbents [28].Figure 3
FTIR spectra of (a)Brassica oleracea (BO), (b) Congo red loaded Brassica oleracea (BO-CR), and (c) brilliant green loaded Brassica oleracea (BO-BG).The data given in Table1: the presence of small amount of moisture, volatile matter, and ash content indicates little particle density that favors adsorption over this particular biosorbent [29]. Porosity, i.e., number of pores per unit area, depicts good adsorption capacity. It is described that in case of some cationic dye adsorption occurs spontaneously due to presence of electrostatic interaction along with hydrogen bonding between the dye (cationic) and the adsorbent while for anionic dye adsorption hydrogen bonding play vital role [30].Table 1
Physioanalytical data ofBrassica oleracea (BO).
ParametersBO valuesBulk density (g.mL-1)0.505Dry density (g.mL-1)0.478Porosity (%)0.83Moisture3Ash99.7Volatile matter0.3Carboxylic acid1.98Phenols0.28Lactones0.01Basic sites1.93pHpzc8Elemental content (mg.Kg-1)C54.81%O38.89%Na1.75%Ca4.55%SEM image of the adsorbent BO shown in Figure4 represents the presence of rough and porous surface which always play effectively towards the adsorption of dye on to the adsorbent surface. More porous adsorbent surface have large physiosorption tendency to adsorb more dye molecules [31].Figure 4
SEM image of BO.


## 3.2. Operational Condition Optimization

pHpzc (point of zero charge) was measured for Brassica oleracea (BO) which turned out to be 8 that provides a strong basic medium for the adsorption of dyes. pHpzc actually helps in determining the sensitivity towards linear range of pH. It also reveals the surface-active centers and adsorption capacity of that adsorbent surface [30]. Literature has widely reported about the pHpzc of agriwaste by a number of researchers. Cationic dyes get more adsorption if pH>pHpzc, i.e., negative charge increases while anionic dyes get favorable adsorption condition if pH<pHpzc, i.e., positive surface charge increases [32, 33] (Figure 5(a)).Figure 5
Adsorption parameter for Congo red (CR) ( % age adsorption y- axis on the right hand side) and brilliant green (BG) ( % age adsorption y-axis on the left hand side) adsorption on Brassica oleresea (BO): (a) pHpzc, (b) contact time, (c) adsorbent dose, (d) pH influence, (e) agitation rate, and (f) temperature change.
(a)(b)(c)(d)(e)(f)Optimum time of contact of BO for both the cases, i.e., CR and BG shown in Figure5(b) which depicts optimum time for CR and BG is 30 and 40 minutes, respectively. Both the trends present a gradual increase in % age adsorption until their optimums were reached, and a downward trend started over there. Optimum adsorbent dose of BO for CR and BG was turned out to be 1 and 1.4 g, correspondingly. Figure 5(c) shows an increasing trend initially, and then the values of % age adsorptions decreased for both of the dyes. Values obtained from the procedure for optimum pH of Brassica oleracea present 1 and 7 pH for CR and BG, respectively (Figure 5(d)). Literature shows that Congo red (CR) is more likely to be adsorbed at acidic pH because of its anionic nature and interacts with adsorbent surface with electrostatic interaction [34]. This electrostatic interaction between the two decreases as the pH of the system gets more basic. It occurs because of the increase in negatively charged particles in the solution and attraction converts into electrostatic repulsion [35, 36]. On the other hand, BG acts as cationic dye and as literature states that cationic dyes show spontaneous adsorption because of growing number of positively charged particles. Hence, there occurs strong hydrogen bonding along with electrostatic attraction [37, 38].Agitation speed of BO for the removal of CR and BG was found to be 120 rpm and 100 rpm, respectively. Shaking speed of solution-containing adsorbent is related to the interaction of molecules between dye, and speeds higher than mentioned above were not suitable for this particular case as there occurs a clear decline in % age adsorption of dyes (Figure5(e)).Temperature optimization was also done for BO for both CR and BG dyes that turned out to be 40°C and 50°C. The higher temperature of the solution higher will be the diffusion rate of dye at the adsorbent surface that results into increased adsorption of the dye but as temperature increased over the optimum, a clear decline in the % age adsorption was observed. This decline is related to very high movements of molecules that reverses the adsorption process [10] indicated in Figure 5(f).


## 3.3. Adsorption Isothermal Studies

The relationship established between the adsorbate and adsorbent is determined by isothermal modeling. It also assessed the authenticity and mechanism of the experiment performed [39]. Following isothermal models were applied to get all this information, i.e., Langmuir, Freundlich, Temkin, and the Dubinin–Radushkevich isotherms.


### 3.3.1. Langmuir Isotherm

It conveys about the relation between equilibrium concentration and the amount of adsorbate per unit weight of sorbent. Langmuir isotherm established on the idea that adsorption occurs as monolayer on homogenous surface of adsorbent [40]. Langmuir isothermal model (linear) given in Eq. (2) is as follows:
(2)1qe=1bqmax∙1Ce+1qmax,whereCe represents equilibrium concentration (mg/L) of BG and CR dyes, qmax is the maximum sorption capacity (monolayer) of sorbent, qe is the quantity of dye adsorbed (mg/g), and b is the sorption ability of the adsorbent. RL also known as separation factor is a dimensionless quantity which presents the probability of sorption. It is calculated by the equation (3):
(3)RL=11+KLCo,whereCo is the initial concentration of dyes, and KL represents Langmuir constant (L/mg).RL values of CR and BR dyes for the adsorption on BO are found to be 0.2789 and 0.4794 both the values are in between 0 and 1 that illustrates the feasibility or favorable condition for adsorption of dyes (Figure 6). Literature has given following cases for the value of RL: 0<RL<1 means the promising adsorption results, RL>1 means not favorable, RL=1 or RL=0 means linear adsorption, and if RL<0, it will be irreversible [41]. The value of RL for both the dyes mentioned above clearly shows effectual use of the Langmuir isothermal model. qmax is the maximum adsorption capacity for both the dyes CR and BR which are 42.55 and 103.09 mg.g-1 which indicated that the adsorption of BG dye is more favored on BO biosorbent rather than for CR (Table 2, Figure 6(a)), compared with literature in Table 3. It shows monolayer of dye gets adsorbed homogenously on the binding sites distributed over the surface of the adsorbent BO [42].Figure 6
Adsorption isotherms. A comparative plot of CR and BG for adsorption onBrassica oleracea BO. (a) Langmuir isotherm, (b) Freundlich isotherm, (c) Temkin isotherm, and (d) Dubini-Radushkevich isotherm.
(a)(b)(c)(d)Table 2
A summary of adsorption isothermal data of Congo red (CR) and brilliant green (BG) dyes adsorbed onBrassica oleracea (BO).
Isotherm modelCRBGLangmuirQm (mg.g-1)42.55103.09RL (L.mg-1)0.270.47b (L.g-1)0.040.01R20.990.99RMSE1.071.06Freundlichn1.411.131/n0.700.88Kf (mg.g-1)2.372.02R20.970.97RMSE1.380.95TemkinB (J.mol-1)6.775.32A (L.mg-1)0.701.09R20.990.98RMSE1.860.52D-RQm (mg.g-1)18.1713.03BD (mol2. (KJ2)-1)0.0000040.000002ED (KJ.mol-1)0.350.5R20.960.98RMSE2.101.2Table 3
Previously announced comparative adsorption capacity (qmax) data.
BiosorbentsAdsorption capacity (qmax) (mg.g-1)ReferencesDecoloration of Congo red dyeCoir pith activated carbon6.72[53]Cattail root38.9[54]Rice husk3.08[55]Banana peel18.2[56]Orange peel14[56]Cationic surfactant modified tea waste106.4[57]Jute stick powder35.7[58]Bael shell carbon98.03[59]Bamboo dust carbon101.9[60]Desiccated coconut waste48.8[61]Vernonia amygdalina leaf powder57.4[62]Brassica oleracea leaf powder42.55[this study]Decoloration of brilliant greenRice husk ash26.18[20]Watermelon peel25[63]Pomegranate peels nanoparticle24.57[64]Areca nut husk18.21[41]Date pit activated carbon77.8[7]Trapa natans peel citric acid treated128[65]Citrullus lanatus peel citric acid treated189[65]Citrullus colocynthis tartaric acid treated79.36[66]Cashew nut shell activated carbon243.9[67]Soybean straw-derived biochar83.33[68]Trapa natan50.51[34]Brassica oleracea leaf powder103.09[this study]


### 3.3.2. Freundlich Isotherm

It is employed to determine multilayer, on-ideal heterogeneous adsorption pattern. This isotherm supports the idea of reversible adsorption on a rough adsorbent surface [43]. Equation Eq. (4) shows the linear for of Freundlich isothermal model
(4)logqe=logKF+1nlogCe,whereKF is known as Freundlich constant and represents biosorption ability, n is known to be frequency or strength of biosorption, and 1/n is actually related to heterogeneity of the adsorbent surface [44, 45]. The graph plotted between log qe vs. log Ce gave straight lines and by using intercept and slope of the graph values of n and KF which can be determined. The data given in Table 2 shows that the values of n for both the dyes CR and BG are found to be 1.419 and 1.138, correspondingly, which signify a good adsorption happened as 1<n<2 depicts good adsorption. Also, R2 happened to be higher in Langmuir’s case rather than for Freundlich that favors the previous one (Figure 6(b)).


### 3.3.3. Temkin Isotherm

It validates the relative decrease of sorption energy. It says heat of adsorption (∆Hads) of adsorbent used, decline in linear fashion as the surface coverage of adsorbent increases [46]. Temkin isotherm advocates the veiled interaction among adsorbate and adsorbent. The linear equation (5) is given below:
(5)qe=BTlnCe+BTlnAT,whereAT is equilibrium binding constant (L/g), and BT represents Temkin isotherm constant (J/mol). This BT depicts that which type of interaction prevails between sorbent and dyes, i.e., physical or chemical. BT<8 favors physical association while BT>8 supports chemical connotation [47–49]. Data presented in Table 2 shows BT values for CR and BG, 6.778, and 5.323, respectively; both for CR and BG, BT values are below 8 which advocates the weak physical connotation between the sorbent BO and both the dyes CR and BG. Figure 6(c) shows graph between lnCe and qe. The values of R2 for the Temkin model are found to be less than Langmuir which depicts poor fitting of this model compared to that of Langmuir model.


### 3.3.4. Dubinin–Radushkevich Isothermal Model

It is considered to be relatively broader than Langmuir and Freundlich isotherms. It contributes in determining adsorption energy and distinctive absorbency mechanism [50]. The equation given illustrates the biosorption of gases on adsorbents (especially microporous). This model supports the multilayer adsorption supported by Vander Waal’s forces [51]. Linear form D-R equation is (6) given below:
(6)lnqe=lnqn−BDε2,(7)ε=RTln1+1Ce.qe represents amount of CR and BG adsorbed, Ce presents equilibrium concentration, qm (mg/g) is known as D-R constant responsible degree of adsorption, ad BD (mol2 ⋅ kJ-2) is free energy and ε named as Polanyi potential. The mean free energy E (kJ.mol-1) can be calculated by eq. (8):
(8)E=12B.E is helpful for the interpretation of mechanism of adsorption, and its value determines the type of adsorption carried out, i.e., E<8 inclined to physiosorption, and 8<E<16 presents ion exchange process while E>16 favors chemisorption sort of adsorption [52]. The data staged in the table gives E visible less than 8 that eventually favors the physiosorption mechanism. E (mean free energy) for CR and BG is 0.35 and 0.5 (kJ.mol-1), correspondingly.All the adsorption isotherms applied, Langmuir, Freundlich, Temkin, and Dubinin-Radushkevish, and regression factorR2 is found be the highest for Langmuir isotherm that is why it is more likely to be followed.


## 3.3.1. Langmuir Isotherm

It conveys about the relation between equilibrium concentration and the amount of adsorbate per unit weight of sorbent. Langmuir isotherm established on the idea that adsorption occurs as monolayer on homogenous surface of adsorbent [40]. Langmuir isothermal model (linear) given in Eq. (2) is as follows:
(2)1qe=1bqmax∙1Ce+1qmax,whereCe represents equilibrium concentration (mg/L) of BG and CR dyes, qmax is the maximum sorption capacity (monolayer) of sorbent, qe is the quantity of dye adsorbed (mg/g), and b is the sorption ability of the adsorbent. RL also known as separation factor is a dimensionless quantity which presents the probability of sorption. It is calculated by the equation (3):
(3)RL=11+KLCo,whereCo is the initial concentration of dyes, and KL represents Langmuir constant (L/mg).RL values of CR and BR dyes for the adsorption on BO are found to be 0.2789 and 0.4794 both the values are in between 0 and 1 that illustrates the feasibility or favorable condition for adsorption of dyes (Figure 6). Literature has given following cases for the value of RL: 0<RL<1 means the promising adsorption results, RL>1 means not favorable, RL=1 or RL=0 means linear adsorption, and if RL<0, it will be irreversible [41]. The value of RL for both the dyes mentioned above clearly shows effectual use of the Langmuir isothermal model. qmax is the maximum adsorption capacity for both the dyes CR and BR which are 42.55 and 103.09 mg.g-1 which indicated that the adsorption of BG dye is more favored on BO biosorbent rather than for CR (Table 2, Figure 6(a)), compared with literature in Table 3. It shows monolayer of dye gets adsorbed homogenously on the binding sites distributed over the surface of the adsorbent BO [42].Figure 6
Adsorption isotherms. A comparative plot of CR and BG for adsorption onBrassica oleracea BO. (a) Langmuir isotherm, (b) Freundlich isotherm, (c) Temkin isotherm, and (d) Dubini-Radushkevich isotherm.
(a)(b)(c)(d)Table 2
A summary of adsorption isothermal data of Congo red (CR) and brilliant green (BG) dyes adsorbed onBrassica oleracea (BO).
Isotherm modelCRBGLangmuirQm (mg.g-1)42.55103.09RL (L.mg-1)0.270.47b (L.g-1)0.040.01R20.990.99RMSE1.071.06Freundlichn1.411.131/n0.700.88Kf (mg.g-1)2.372.02R20.970.97RMSE1.380.95TemkinB (J.mol-1)6.775.32A (L.mg-1)0.701.09R20.990.98RMSE1.860.52D-RQm (mg.g-1)18.1713.03BD (mol2. (KJ2)-1)0.0000040.000002ED (KJ.mol-1)0.350.5R20.960.98RMSE2.101.2Table 3
Previously announced comparative adsorption capacity (qmax) data.
BiosorbentsAdsorption capacity (qmax) (mg.g-1)ReferencesDecoloration of Congo red dyeCoir pith activated carbon6.72[53]Cattail root38.9[54]Rice husk3.08[55]Banana peel18.2[56]Orange peel14[56]Cationic surfactant modified tea waste106.4[57]Jute stick powder35.7[58]Bael shell carbon98.03[59]Bamboo dust carbon101.9[60]Desiccated coconut waste48.8[61]Vernonia amygdalina leaf powder57.4[62]Brassica oleracea leaf powder42.55[this study]Decoloration of brilliant greenRice husk ash26.18[20]Watermelon peel25[63]Pomegranate peels nanoparticle24.57[64]Areca nut husk18.21[41]Date pit activated carbon77.8[7]Trapa natans peel citric acid treated128[65]Citrullus lanatus peel citric acid treated189[65]Citrullus colocynthis tartaric acid treated79.36[66]Cashew nut shell activated carbon243.9[67]Soybean straw-derived biochar83.33[68]Trapa natan50.51[34]Brassica oleracea leaf powder103.09[this study]


## 3.3.2. Freundlich Isotherm

It is employed to determine multilayer, on-ideal heterogeneous adsorption pattern. This isotherm supports the idea of reversible adsorption on a rough adsorbent surface [43]. Equation Eq. (4) shows the linear for of Freundlich isothermal model
(4)logqe=logKF+1nlogCe,whereKF is known as Freundlich constant and represents biosorption ability, n is known to be frequency or strength of biosorption, and 1/n is actually related to heterogeneity of the adsorbent surface [44, 45]. The graph plotted between log qe vs. log Ce gave straight lines and by using intercept and slope of the graph values of n and KF which can be determined. The data given in Table 2 shows that the values of n for both the dyes CR and BG are found to be 1.419 and 1.138, correspondingly, which signify a good adsorption happened as 1<n<2 depicts good adsorption. Also, R2 happened to be higher in Langmuir’s case rather than for Freundlich that favors the previous one (Figure 6(b)).


## 3.3.3. Temkin Isotherm

It validates the relative decrease of sorption energy. It says heat of adsorption (∆Hads) of adsorbent used, decline in linear fashion as the surface coverage of adsorbent increases [46]. Temkin isotherm advocates the veiled interaction among adsorbate and adsorbent. The linear equation (5) is given below:
(5)qe=BTlnCe+BTlnAT,whereAT is equilibrium binding constant (L/g), and BT represents Temkin isotherm constant (J/mol). This BT depicts that which type of interaction prevails between sorbent and dyes, i.e., physical or chemical. BT<8 favors physical association while BT>8 supports chemical connotation [47–49]. Data presented in Table 2 shows BT values for CR and BG, 6.778, and 5.323, respectively; both for CR and BG, BT values are below 8 which advocates the weak physical connotation between the sorbent BO and both the dyes CR and BG. Figure 6(c) shows graph between lnCe and qe. The values of R2 for the Temkin model are found to be less than Langmuir which depicts poor fitting of this model compared to that of Langmuir model.


## 3.3.4. Dubinin–Radushkevich Isothermal Model

It is considered to be relatively broader than Langmuir and Freundlich isotherms. It contributes in determining adsorption energy and distinctive absorbency mechanism [50]. The equation given illustrates the biosorption of gases on adsorbents (especially microporous). This model supports the multilayer adsorption supported by Vander Waal’s forces [51]. Linear form D-R equation is (6) given below:
(6)lnqe=lnqn−BDε2,(7)ε=RTln1+1Ce.qe represents amount of CR and BG adsorbed, Ce presents equilibrium concentration, qm (mg/g) is known as D-R constant responsible degree of adsorption, ad BD (mol2 ⋅ kJ-2) is free energy and ε named as Polanyi potential. The mean free energy E (kJ.mol-1) can be calculated by eq. (8):
(8)E=12B.E is helpful for the interpretation of mechanism of adsorption, and its value determines the type of adsorption carried out, i.e., E<8 inclined to physiosorption, and 8<E<16 presents ion exchange process while E>16 favors chemisorption sort of adsorption [52]. The data staged in the table gives E visible less than 8 that eventually favors the physiosorption mechanism. E (mean free energy) for CR and BG is 0.35 and 0.5 (kJ.mol-1), correspondingly.All the adsorption isotherms applied, Langmuir, Freundlich, Temkin, and Dubinin-Radushkevish, and regression factorR2 is found be the highest for Langmuir isotherm that is why it is more likely to be followed.


## 3.4. Kinetic Studies

Biosorption rate of reaction was studied by applying the standard kinetic models which include Elovich, Lagergren pseudofirst order model, and Ho’s pseudosecond order model. To get the best fittin,g among them, percent relative deviation was measured by eq. (9):
(9)P%=100Nqeexp−qecalqeexp,whereqeexp is the experimental sorption ability (mg.g-1), qecal represents calculated value of sorption ability; it is obtained by using kinetic models, and N shows no. of observations [69].


### 3.4.1. Elovich Model

It favors multiple coating of dye as it is based on the idea of exponential increase in adsorption, powered by the rise of sorption locations on adsorbent [70]. This model was first applied in favor of chemisorption process of gases [65]. Linear equation of the Elovich model is shown in eq. (10) [71]:
(10)qt=lna×bb+lntb,whereqtmg.g−1 is the amount of dye carried by adsorbent at any time t, ag.mg−1 shows rate of adsorption in the start of process, and bg.mg−1 presents the total no. of adsorption spots occupied by dye molecules. Higher the value of a, more it will support chemisorption. For this model, a plot of lnt vs. qt gives the values of Elovich constants using slope and intercept (Figure 7(a)).Figure 7
Comparative kinetic and thermodynamic studies plots for CR and BG dye removal by BO. (a) Elovich plot, (b) pseudofirst order, (c) pseudosecond order, (d) intraparticle diffusion model, (e) film diffusion model, and (f) thermodynamic parameters of CR and BG dyes.
(a)(b)(c)(d)(e)(f)


### 3.4.2. Pseudofirst Order Model

It is also known as the Lagergren model which is recognized on the postulate that adsorption is comparable to the number of attaching sites for the dye on the adsorbent surfaces [72].
(11)lnqe−qt=lnqe−k1t,wherek1h−1 represents as rate constant, and qt and qe show amount of dye adsorbed at any moment of time t and at equilibrium, respectively. If the values of qe and qt have more difference (P), then this model becomes futile. Also, the -ive sign with value of P depicts that adsorption rate at equilibrium is more than any other time t along with this value of regression factor R2 which is also responsible to decide either this model is effective or not. Here, R2 value is quite less than 1; so, this model does not fit on adsorption data (Table 3, Figure 7(b)).


### 3.4.3. Pseudosecond Order Model

Ho’s model is based on the statement that reaction rate of adsorption process is related to concentration of dye and square of attaching sites for dye on adsorbent surface [73, 74]. Following equation presents linear form of this model:
(12)tq=1k2qe2+tqe,wherek2 shows the rate constant for Ho’s model, and qe and qt depict adsorption ability at equilibrium and any time interval, correspondingly.Here, the lesser difference betweenqeexp and qecal approves the chemisorption type of adsorption; also, the value of P% is low along with higher correlation coefficient (R2) [75]. The values of R2 for CR and BR are found to be 0.994 and 0.996, correspondingly. The value is closer to unity which depicts that pseudosecond order is more likely to be followed (Table 4, Figure 7(c)).Table 4
A brief summary of kinetic parameters applied on adsorption of dyes on BO.
Kinetic modelCRBGElovicha (g.mg-1.min-1)0.893.58b (g/mg)94.161533663.33R20.9310.93RMSE0.0780.076Pseudofirst orderqe (exp) (mg.g-1)9.364.835qe (calc) (mg.g-1)3.001.2482K1 (min-1)-0.0021-0.0001225R20.930.97P (%)8.498.14RMSE2.872.27Pseudosecond orderK2 (g.mg-1 min-1)29.236.64qe (calc) (mg.g-1)9.665.52qe (exp) (mg.g-1)9.365.5t1/20.003540.03h (mg.g-1.Min-1)2728.48203.1R20.990.99P (%)-0.4-0.05RMSE0.240.16Intraparticle diffusionkid (mg.g-1.Min-1/2)0.64.53C (mg·g−1)5.520.14R20.970.99Film diffusionKfd (1/min-1)0.090.01R20.940.97


## 3.4.1. Elovich Model

It favors multiple coating of dye as it is based on the idea of exponential increase in adsorption, powered by the rise of sorption locations on adsorbent [70]. This model was first applied in favor of chemisorption process of gases [65]. Linear equation of the Elovich model is shown in eq. (10) [71]:
(10)qt=lna×bb+lntb,whereqtmg.g−1 is the amount of dye carried by adsorbent at any time t, ag.mg−1 shows rate of adsorption in the start of process, and bg.mg−1 presents the total no. of adsorption spots occupied by dye molecules. Higher the value of a, more it will support chemisorption. For this model, a plot of lnt vs. qt gives the values of Elovich constants using slope and intercept (Figure 7(a)).Figure 7
Comparative kinetic and thermodynamic studies plots for CR and BG dye removal by BO. (a) Elovich plot, (b) pseudofirst order, (c) pseudosecond order, (d) intraparticle diffusion model, (e) film diffusion model, and (f) thermodynamic parameters of CR and BG dyes.
(a)(b)(c)(d)(e)(f)


## 3.4.2. Pseudofirst Order Model

It is also known as the Lagergren model which is recognized on the postulate that adsorption is comparable to the number of attaching sites for the dye on the adsorbent surfaces [72].
(11)lnqe−qt=lnqe−k1t,wherek1h−1 represents as rate constant, and qt and qe show amount of dye adsorbed at any moment of time t and at equilibrium, respectively. If the values of qe and qt have more difference (P), then this model becomes futile. Also, the -ive sign with value of P depicts that adsorption rate at equilibrium is more than any other time t along with this value of regression factor R2 which is also responsible to decide either this model is effective or not. Here, R2 value is quite less than 1; so, this model does not fit on adsorption data (Table 3, Figure 7(b)).


## 3.4.3. Pseudosecond Order Model

Ho’s model is based on the statement that reaction rate of adsorption process is related to concentration of dye and square of attaching sites for dye on adsorbent surface [73, 74]. Following equation presents linear form of this model:
(12)tq=1k2qe2+tqe,wherek2 shows the rate constant for Ho’s model, and qe and qt depict adsorption ability at equilibrium and any time interval, correspondingly.Here, the lesser difference betweenqeexp and qecal approves the chemisorption type of adsorption; also, the value of P% is low along with higher correlation coefficient (R2) [75]. The values of R2 for CR and BR are found to be 0.994 and 0.996, correspondingly. The value is closer to unity which depicts that pseudosecond order is more likely to be followed (Table 4, Figure 7(c)).Table 4
A brief summary of kinetic parameters applied on adsorption of dyes on BO.
Kinetic modelCRBGElovicha (g.mg-1.min-1)0.893.58b (g/mg)94.161533663.33R20.9310.93RMSE0.0780.076Pseudofirst orderqe (exp) (mg.g-1)9.364.835qe (calc) (mg.g-1)3.001.2482K1 (min-1)-0.0021-0.0001225R20.930.97P (%)8.498.14RMSE2.872.27Pseudosecond orderK2 (g.mg-1 min-1)29.236.64qe (calc) (mg.g-1)9.665.52qe (exp) (mg.g-1)9.365.5t1/20.003540.03h (mg.g-1.Min-1)2728.48203.1R20.990.99P (%)-0.4-0.05RMSE0.240.16Intraparticle diffusionkid (mg.g-1.Min-1/2)0.64.53C (mg·g−1)5.520.14R20.970.99Film diffusionKfd (1/min-1)0.090.01R20.940.97


## 3.5. Adsorption Mechanism

To determine the mechanism followed by adsorption process, two different models were applied, i.e., intraparticle diffusion model and film diffusion model [76, 77].Intraparticle diffusion or Weber Morris model is presented as(13)qt=kipt1/2+C.Kip is known as coefficient of intraparticle diffusion, and C is called boundary layer influence.The plot (qt vs. t1/2) presenting straight line crossing the origin is clearly suggesting the intraparticle diffusion mechanism if not then film diffusion mechanism or Boyd’s mechanism will be followed (Figures 7(e) and 7(f)).Boyd’s model is built on partially attained equilibrium related to variable time as given below [78],
(14)F=1−63.14162exp−Bbt,Bb=−0.4997−ln1−qtqe,whereBb is Boyd’s constant while F represents partially attained equilibrium (qt/qe).R2 compared given in Table 3 for both CR and BG shows that intraparticle diffusion mechanism was followed.


## 3.6. Thermodynamic Studies

The variation in temperature of the adsorption system visibly affects the kinetic energy of the dyes, CR and BG. This factor speeds up rate of diffusion as the interaction of dye molecules occurs with porous and spongy surface. Certain operational parameters of thermodynamics, i.e., Gibbs free energy∆G°, change in entropy (∆S°), and change in enthalpy (∆H°) were utilized to determine the efficiency and adsorption rate of dyes CR and BG using Figure 7(f). Table 5 presents the values of ∆G°, ∆H°, and ∆S°, and -ive value of free energy and enthalpy of the system supports spontaneous and exothermic nature of reaction while +ive entropy of the system defends the randomness of adsorbent surface [76, 79, 80]. These were calculated by equation below:
(15)ΔG0=RTlnKD,Table 5
Thermodynamic parameters of dyes removal byBO.
AdsorbateTemp (K)KD=qe/Ce∆G° (kJ/Mol)∆H°(kJ/mol)∆S° (J/mol K)CR293.160.273.21-13.6635.94303.160.352.67313.160.392.46323.160.4881.92333.160.541.72343.160.611.39353.160.541.82BG293.161.44-0.89-6.1324.19303.161.67-1.29313.161.71-1.40323.161.97-1.82333.161.91-2.01343.162.15-2.72whereR is known as general gas constant, TK is the temperature, and KD is the distribution coefficient.
(16)KD=Ceqe.The value of∆H° ranging 2.1 to 20.9 kJ/mol is an emphasis on physiosorption while its value between 80 and 200 kJ/mol is due to stronger interface resulting chemisorption. A linear plot 1/T vs. ln KD presented in the figure which give the values of ∆G°, ∆H°, and ∆S°, using the following equation:
(17)ΔG°=ΔH°−T∆S°.Here, the value ofG is found to be negative along with H (negative), and S is found to be positive; all these factors show a spontaneous, exothermic adsorption reaction with positive entropy or randomness of the adsorption system [81].


## 4. Conclusion

Brassica oleracea is an abundantly available agriwaste material that is effectively utilized to eradicate two potentially damaging dyes: Congo red (anionic) and brilliant green (cationic) from waste water by applying batch sorption. Surface characterization and morphological studies by FTIR and SEM analysis provided that active uptake or removal of both the dye CR and BG is carried out by electrostatic interface by carboxylic as well as hydroxyl moieties present in adsorbent. Also, the interspaces present on sorbent surface expedited the uptake of dye molecules in the form of ions traveling towards its surface. These ions (dye) followed intraparticle as well as film diffusion mechanism to get attached on the surface of adsorbent (BO). Adsorption isotherms carried out also exhibit best fitting of the Langmuir isotherm model on the basis of R2 being the highest among all used here along with qmax 42.553 and 103.093 for CR and BG, correspondingly. This clearly supports a homogenous monolayer adsorption of dyes CR and BG. Kinetic modeling gives its results in favor of Elovich and pseudosecond order model which shows that chemisorption occurs between the molecules of dye and adsorbent. Thermodynamic parameters (∆G°, ∆H°, and ∆S°) studied also revealed that this process is appeared to be a spontaneous, exothermic process. Thus, all this proved that it is a physiochemical biosorption procedure highly effective for the removal of dyes from waste water, as summarized in Figure 8.Figure 8
Summarizing whole work in one frame.



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