Removal of fluoride from aqueous solution by adsorption on Apatitic tricalcium phosphate using Box-Behnken design and desirability function

► Response surface methodology was employed for the removal of fluoride. ► Experiments were carried out as per Box-Behnken surface statistical design. ► pH, adsorbent dose, temperature and F− concentration have significant effect. ► Optimization of responses is performed by desirability function method. ► Optimum pH, adsorbent dose, temperature and initial concentration are 4, 0.29 g, 40 °C, and 60 mg L−1, respectively.