Effective removal of Rhodamine 6G (Basic Red-1) reactive dye using waxy corn starch in waste water of textile industry

The textile industry generates effluents containing toxic dyes, which have detrimental effects on the environment, including air, soil, and water contamination. These dyes also pose risks to human health and disrupt aquatic ecosystems. Developing ecological and cost-effective method to address this issue is a major challenge. This study focuses on utilizing waxy cornstarch, which exhibits unique properties such as high biodegradability, environmental compatibility, low sludge volume, small particle size, and high surface area (1.27 m2/g), for removing the reactive dye Rhodamine 6G (Basic Red-1) from textile wastewater. The composition of waxy cornstarch was analyzed, including determination of protein content using the Kjeldahl apparatus, as well as moisture content, ash content, and fine fiber content through experimental methods. The rate of dye removal from wastewater was assessed using a UV-spectrophotometer. The experimental design was selected, and trials were conducted using a glass testing apparatus. Dye removal rates were investigated at different dosages, temperatures, and pH ranges. The highest dye removal efficiency of 83.6% was achieved at a pH of 5, a temperature of 40 °C, and a coagulant dosage of 40 mg/l. These findings highlight the potential of waxy cornstarch as a natural coagulant for effective removal of Rhodamine 6G dye from textile wastewater.