Adsorption data modeling and analysis under scrutiny: A clarion call to redress recently found troubling flaws
Ackmez Mudhoo, Charles U. Pittman
Abstract
The analysis of aqueous adsorption data comprises adsorbent characterization, bench-scale batch and fixed bed adsorption experiments, adsorption kinetics modeling, adsorption isotherm analysis using predefined models, and thermodynamics analysis . Then, a plausible adsorption interaction (often called a ‘mechanism’) is proposed. Adsorption literature abounds with original research articles written based on this overall approach. However, a cluster of recent articles have boldly presented several critical flaws within these established adsorption data modeling and analyses. We summarize and revisit salient points discussed in them to sound the alarm for using the proposed corrected approaches in adsorption data modeling and analysis. Unfortunately, these corrections are usually neglected in the adsorption literature. Hence, this article issues a warning that cannot be overemphasized, advocating correct adsorption data modeling and analyses. It is high time to put the correct mathematical approach to adsorption data modeling and analysis in practice. The core benefits minimize future errors to reach the correct conclusions and to designing more effective water purification adsorption units.