Removal of Fluorides Using a Low-Cost Adsorbent

Abstract

Water is one of the most precious and important resources. We must consume safe, wholesome, and drinking water. The level of fluoride in the groundwater varies greatly among regions in India. Fluoride poisoning has reportedly gone out of hand and is currently harming at least 267 districts spread over 19 states in India, according to the Ministry of Water Resources. Thirteen districts in Andhra Pradesh have a fluoride contamination problem in eleven of them. According to IS 10500 - 2012, drinking water fluoride values must be between 1.0 mg/L and 1.5 mg/L. The Nalgonda method is one of the methods used to remove too much fluoride from groundwater. These strategies all have a variety of shortcomings. Adsorption techniques have been shown to be more efficient. ResearchersDue of their affordability and effectiveness, adsorption techniques are more frequently used by researchers. Many natural materials and adsorbents are being tested globally. In this study, the Tulsi (Ocimum Sanctum) leaf powder was utilized as an adsorbent to remove too much fluoride from water. Because it is a medicinal plant, it won't leave any chemicals in the water that has been treated. The study found that the highest level of fluoride removal occurs at a dosage of 0.4 g/L, which is 90.6% after three hours of interaction. Along with the initial concentration, the fluoride removal percentage increased.From the study, it can be inferred that pH value has a significant impact on the percentage of fluorides removed with Tulsi powder. High levels of fluoride removal are seen in the acidic pH range.