Papaya trunk fibre tailored bio-adsorbent for efficient ternary dyes removal from textile effluent and its reuse

Abstract

This research delves into enhancing the surface properties of papaya trunk fibre (PTF) through a gentle oxidation process, aiming to elevate its whiteness index, visual appeal, and surface texture. The study investigates the morphological and small structural alterations of PTF resulting in modified papaya fibre (MPF). Through this modification, a significant enhancement in the whiteness index of the MPF is achieved, showing a remarkable improvement of 62.79% over the PTF. Subsequently, the MPF is assessed for its efficacy in adsorbing Reactive Red 195 (RR195), Reactive Orange 122 (RO122), and Reactive Blue 221 (RB221) dyes. The MPF demonstrates removal capacities for RR195, RO122, and RB221 of 69.44 mg g⁻¹, 69.80 mg g⁻¹, and 88.56 mg g⁻¹ respectively within 60 min. at pH 2 from aqueous solution. It exhibits notable efficacy in removing dyes from real textile effluents with the removal of 58.20% for RR195, 77.26% for RO122, and 61.11% for RB221 in 60 min. Moreover, MPF proves effective in treating combined effluents, achieving a 54.49% reduction in dye concentration. The papaya fibre remaining after dye adsorption exhibit excellent fastness against abrasion in dry condition. Additionally, the study evaluates the potential against a microbial attack of PTF, MPF, and papaya fibre after dye adsorption (PFADA) using gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. Briefly, papaya fibre emerges as a promising choice, serving as a cost-effective and environmentally friendly adsorbent, efficiently removing dyes from textile effluent. Moreover, its potential to inhibit microbial growth and aesthetic color positions it as a versatile material for commercial use.

Graphical abstract