Different forms of application of Moringa oleifera seeds in water treatment

Natural coagulants and filtration systems are suitable water treatment technologies in rural or isolated communities. This research aimed to compare two forms of application of coagulant extracted from Moringa oleifera seeds. Coagulant liquid (10 mL L^-1 at 2%) and pouches containing 0.8 g powder were used. The dispersion, coagulation and flocculation steps were performed prior to both up flow gravel pre-filtration and slow sand filtration. Significant differences were observed for the liquid coagulant and pouches regarding the reduction of turbidity and apparent color. Although the up flow gravel pre-filter was less effective with the use of pouches, with an average reduction of turbidity of 73.5 and 82.5% for the pouches and liquid coagulant, respectively, the effluent of the slow filter presented lower turbidity, with an average reduction of 83.9 and 60.1% for the pouches and liquid coagulant, respectively. Considering the filtration system (up flow gravel pre-filter and slow sand filter) the use of pouches showed high reduction of turbidity and apparent color. The preparation of pouches does not require the use of water, a condition that favors its application in areas with lack of water of acceptable quality.

rural sanitation; natural coagulant; slow sand filtration