Response surface methodology (RSM) is a powerful statistical tool that systematically explores variable interactions and optimizes processes with fewer experiments . In PFAS studies, RSM has been used to optimize degradation and adsorption processes, including PFOS removal via heterogeneous photocatalysis (83% removal in 8 hours) (de S. , PFOA adsorption using alginate hydrogel (94.8 ± 2.1% removal) , and PFOA removal with layered double hydroxides and peroxydisulfate activation (H. . These investigations demonstrate RSM's effectiveness in optimizing operational parameters and adsorbent design for PFAS treatment under mild conditions. However, its reliance on polynomial regression can limit capturing complex nonlinear and higher-order interactions, suggesting the need for complementary approaches when dealing with diverse PFAS compounds and adsorbents.