Application of Raw Moroccan Clay as a Potential Adsorbent for the Removal of Malachite Green Dye from an Aqueous Solution: Adsorption Parameters Evaluation and Thermodynamic Study

Abstract. This study uses raw clay from the Es-sifa (REC) territorial commune in the region of Draa-Tafilalet, Morocco, for malachite green (MG) adsorption from an aqueous medium. The characterization of clay was ensured by Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), and determining the Point of Zero Charge pH. Moreover, five parameters were considered to regulate the adsorption process, including time of contact, initial dye concentration, mass of the adsorbent, stirring speed, and temperature. The finding displayed that equilibrium was reached after only 40 minutes of contact. The maximum adsorption amount achieved was 89.61 mg/g for a dye concentration of 10-4 M at 25 °C, using a REC mass of 0.10 g. According to the thermodynamic study, the endothermicity and spontaneity of MG adsorption were disclosed. Malachite green's fixation on the REC surface was verified by comparing the clay FTIR spectra before and after adsorption.