Optimization and Removal of Heavy Metals from Groundwater Using Moringa Extracts and Coconut Shell Carbon Powder

Abstract

This study focuses on enhancing the efficacy and elimination of heavy metals from groundwater by employing bio-absorbents generated from Moringa extracts and Coconut shell carbon powder. The green synthesis technique was utilized to produce cost-effective absorbents, including powdered Moringa seeds, leaves and carbon from coconut shells. The study examines the effectiveness of synthetic bio-absorbents in removing heavy metals, including Copper (Cu), Cadmium (Cd), Iron (Fe), Lead (Pb), Chromium (Cr), and Zinc (Zn), from groundwater. Identifying functional groups such as Hydroxyl (OH), C-H of alkenes, C=C of alkenes, and C-O from carboxylic acids have been determined to be essential for removing metals in groundwater. The method of FT-IR spectroscopy was used to characterize these functional groups. The examination of the morphology of Moringa seeds indicated the presence of consistent spherical network sheets, but Moringa leaves had a hexagonal network structure like a flower. The coconut shell photos revealed the presence of irregular, small-sized flakes that were clustered together to create a sheet. In light of the escalating deterioration of groundwater quality in Vijayawada as a result of industrial expansion, urban development, and significant infrastructure initiatives, the primary objective of the study was to ascertain the primary contaminants present in the groundwater. Subsequently, adsorption methods utilizing natural bio-absorbents were employed. Water samples were gathered and exposed to bio-absorption utilizing powdered Moringa olifera leaves, powdered Moringa olifera seeds, and powdered carbon derived from coconut shells. The technique of Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy was utilized to examine the decrease in concentrations of heavy metals. The findings demonstrated that the bio-absorption of heavy metals was more prominent in Moringa olifera seed powder than in Moringa olifera leaf powder and coconut shell carbon powder. The highest levels of adsorption for copper, cadmium, and lead were achieved at 98.5%, 99.5% and 99.4%, respectively. This work offers useful insights into the potential of bio-absorbents manufactured using green methods for effectively eliminating heavy metals from groundwater. It addresses the crucial problem of water quality in metropolitan areas.