I’m researching the biosorption of lead in aqueous solution onto industrial wastes of potato peel modified with citric acid. I want to use the Response Surface Methodology (RSM) to optimize the biosorption process, so I’m conducting a Central Composite Design (CCD). I’m evaluating the solution pH, initial concentration of lead, and biosorbent dose in the CCD. Still, I’m confused about what response variable I should consider for the RSM. It could be the adsorption capacity (qe) or removal efficiency (%R). I see both of them in research papers, but I would like to know the most suitable.
I appreciate any help you can provide.
Hi Ana,
There is no specific rule on which response must be use for the RSM modeling. You may decide to use the adsorption capacity (qe) or adsorption efficiency (%R). Most important is to subject the data to the ANOVA and observe the fittings of the model F and p-values, coefficients of correlation, lack of fit and the adequate precision. Also the significance of the interactive variables. Overall, the fitting of the adsorption data to the RSM modeling is what matters.
Dear Ana
The choice of response variable, depends on your purpose of the biosorption study. For example you can consider biosorbed material amount, as response variable.
An example of biosorbed material amount, as response variable is given in the following article:
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/316711880_Optimization_with_Response_Surface_Methodology_of_biosorption_conditions_of_HgII_ions_from_aqueous_media_by_Polyporus_Squamosus_fungi_as_a_new_biosorbent
optimiszation of physical parameters such as temperature, ph , concentration of substrate.