Work

Modelling of an adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system and artificial neural network for the removal of cobalt (II) from aqueous solutions using green and biodegradable adsorbents: Column breakthrough studies

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: This study investigates the continuous removal of cobalt (II) from water using a novel, environmentally friendly, and renewable adsorbent based on modified cellulose nanocrystal (CNC) composites. Fixed-bed column experiments were conducted at different pH values (4–8), influent cobalt (II) concentrations (10–20 mg/L), flow rates (3–7 mL/min), and bed heights (3–9 cm) to evaluate breakthrough behavior and column performance. The novelty of this study lies in integrating continuous fixed-bed adsorption experiments, conventional breakthrough modelling, and artificial intelligence-based prediction using artificial neural network (ANN) and adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS) models within a unified framework. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) confirmed successful adsorbent modification and favorable physicochemical characteristics. Column performance decreased with decreasing bed height and increasing flow rate and influent concentration, primarily because of reduced contact time and faster saturation of available adsorption sites. Among the conventional breakthrough models investigated, the Yan model provided the best representation of the nonlinear adsorption behavior. ANN and ANFIS models were subsequently developed to predict cobalt (II) removal under dynamic operating conditions and evaluated using R², RMSE, MSE, and MPSD. The ANN model demonstrated excellent predictive performance, achieving R² = 0.999 and strong agreement between experimental and predicted results. Integrating renewable CNC-based adsorbents with conventional modelling and ANN/ANFIS prediction provides a promising framework for optimizing continuous cobalt (II) removal and generating complementary information to support engineering scale-up and advanced water-treatment applications.

Source: Desalination and Water Treatment

DOI: 10.1016/j.dwt.2026.102016

Authors: Banza Jean Claude, Vhahangwele Masindi, Alusani Manyatshe

Institution: University of South Africa

Language: English

Topic: Adsorption and biosorption for pollutant removal

Subfield: Water Science and Technology

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Clean water and sanitation, Responsible consumption and production

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,000