Response Surface Optimization of Lead Sorption by <em>Pinus roxburghii</em> Cone-Derived Activated Carbon: Performance Assessment and Optimization

The pervasive issue of lead contamination in water systems necessitates the development of advanced and sustainable remediation methodologies. Powdered activated carbon synthesized from Pinus roxburghii has been meticulously evaluated as a high-performance capture medium to remove sequestration of lead ions from aqueous systems through batch adsorption studies. These adsorption dynamics were optimized by Response Surface Methodology integrated with Central Composite Design, enabling precise calibration of crucial influential factors such as pH, contact time, and adsorbent dosage. Morphological analysis conducted using Scanning Electron Microscopy confirmed a highly porous structure, while Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy identified functional groups, such as hydroxyl groups coupled with carbonyl groups, which exhibit strong metal affinity. Under optimal conditions, a pH of 8.2, a time of 140 minutes, and an adsorbent dosage of 0.03 g/L resulted in a maximum lead removal efficiency of 99.86%. Validation trials substantiated the reproducibility of the process, yielding a marginally diminished efficiency of 98.62±1.24%. The integration of RSM not only validated the statistical significance of the experimental outcomes but also reinforced the predictive accuracy. This study demonstrates the critical interplay of adsorption parameters and highlights the physicochemical properties of Pinus roxburghii-based activated carbon, emphasizing its potential for advanced water purification processes.