Chapter 5 - Application of plant-based natural coagulants in water treatment

Abstract

Water, the elixir of life, is becoming a scarce and expensive resource in the present era of unmindful exploitation of the resources. With current exploitation of groundwater resources and unchecked pollution on surface water resources, the emphasis is laid on the development of greener solutions for water treatment. With a wide spectrum of biodiversity, nature always offers greener solution for the water problems. One such aspect is the utilization of indigenous natural materials for water treatment. The usage of natural coagulants in water treatment may be primitive, but it is a sustainable solution with a specific scientific approach. The last few decades witnessed a plethora of research in natural coagulants in the treatment of both wastewater and drinking water. Scientific dissemination of the properties of the natural coagulant is utmost important. In light of these challenges, the review paper will collate the natural coagulants explored by the indigenous communities and the scientific fraternity. The review will also address the challenges and limitations with respect to the utilization of these materials in water treatment when compared to its chemical counterpart, viz. alum and ferric chloride. These plants with active coagulant ingredients also have the inherent potential of commercial utility as industrial crops. Large-scale application and commercialization of these natural coagulants would be possible only through continuous exploration of the process and chemistry of these natural coagulants.