Optimization of coagulation-flocculation in urban water treatment using Moringa oleifera

Abstract

Using a safe, easy-to-apply, and cost-effective flocculant to substitute alum is imperative for broadening and improving water quality in rural areas where conventional water treatment methods are inaccessible. This study aimed to assess the efficacy of Moringa oleifera seeds (MOS) in treating urban wastewater. The experiment involved adding random quantities ranging from 0.1 to 0.5 g/500 ml of water. Various properties of the wastewater were evaluated, including turbidity, chemical oxygen demand (COD), and color. The optimal dosage of MOS was determined to be 0.3 g/ 500 ml, resulting in the most significant reduction in color and turbidity. The highest reduction percentage was observed for turbidity (87.5 %), followed by COD (58.8 %) and color (49.76 %). The characteristics of dissolved organic matter notably influence the coagulation behavior of MOS. Based on these findings, the study proposed a coagulation mechanism for Moringa.