Optimization of chromium(VI) sorption potential using developed activated carbon from sugarcane bagasse with chemical activation by zinc chloride

► Developed a new activated carbon using discarded material (sugarcane bagasse) with chemical activation. ► An efficient response surface methodology was used for modeling and optimization the sorption potential of Cr(VI) ions. ► This ensure a high adsorption efficiency at low adsorbent dose and high initial concentration of Cr(VI). ► It was able to explain the importance of the experimental factors, their interactions, along with their assay optimum values.