Response surface methodology approach for the optimization of tartrazine removal by heterogeneous photo-Fenton process using mesostructured Fe2O3-suppoted ZSM-5 prepared by chitin-templating

A statistical optimization of tartrazine dye removal process from aqueous solution by heterogeneous photo-Fenton process using Fe2O3-supported ZSM-5 catalyst was performed. ZSM-5 support was prepared by chitin-templating technique to obtain a mesoporous structure. Thereafter, Fe2O3 was supported on ZSM-5 through wet impregnation method. This material was characterized by different techniques and posteriorly evaluated as a catalyst for the removal of tartrazine from aqueous solution. A central composite rotational design coupled with response surface methodology approach was used to evaluate the influence of different reaction conditions on the decolorization of a solution containing tartrazine and to obtain the optimum conditions. Under the optimum experimental conditions of dye decolorization, a mineralization experiment was conducted through analysis of total organic carbon. In these conditions, 95% of decolorization was achieved at 30min of reaction and a significant mineralization of 80% was observed at 180min. Therefore, the photo-Fenton process using Fe2O3-supported ZSM-5 prepared by chitin-templating was proved to be feasible for both the decolorization and mineralization of tartrazine in aqueous solution.