Remediation of Polluted Water Using Natural Products

In an international context marked by growing concerns about water pollution, this study focuses on the development of innovative and environmentally friendly solutions for treating contaminated water. This groundbreaking research explores the use of aloe vera gel as an antibacterial agent and avocado peel transformed into activated charcoal to create effective biofilters capable of specifically targeting methylene blue, heavy metals, and bacteria present in polluted water. The study begins with a thorough analysis of the antibacterial properties of aloe vera gel and the adsorption of heavy metals and dyes by activated charcoal derived from avocado peel. The methodology involves precise steps in the treatment of these natural resources into effective water treatment agents. The adsorbents were characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results confirmed that the optimal dye concentration for methylene blue adsorption by activated charcoal is 100 mg/l from an aqueous solution, with an adsorption efficiency of 94.9%. Following the conducted tests, it was demonstrated that activated charcoal adsorbed a significantly higher quantity of bacteria compared to aloe vera. These biofilters, utilizing natural resources, offer an organic and economical alternative for water treatment in regions affected by water contamination. The study also examined the influence of additive concentration and mass effects in the filters. This method demonstrates an exceptional ability to treat wastewater, eliminating bacteria, organic pollutants, and dyes, all at a minimal cost and without causing environmental harm.