Researchers at the University of Hassan II-Casablanca in Morocco have made a groundbreaking discovery in the field of water treatment. A recent study conducted by the university found that watermelon rinds can be effectively utilized to treat water contaminated by metals and turbidity. This eco-friendly solution offers a sustainable alternative to traditional chemical coagulants and could have significant implications for areas with limited access to clean water.
The study used watermelon rinds, typically considered waste, as a bio-coagulant to treat contaminated water. Advanced analytical techniques were employed to characterize the rinds before and after the treatment process, revealing promising results. Under optimal conditions, the watermelon rinds achieved impressive removal efficiencies of 97.51% for zinc, 99.88% for copper, and 99.21% for turbidity.
The research also highlighted the potential of decentralized water treatment methods using natural coagulants like watermelon rinds. By offering a cost-effective and sustainable solution, this discovery could revolutionize the field of water treatment and reduce the reliance on expensive and environmentally harmful chemical coagulants.
Further testing on industrial effluents at larger scales is needed to assess the feasibility of this innovative approach in real-world applications. This research not only provides a solution to water treatment challenges but also presents an opportunity to repurpose agricultural waste, contributing to a circular economy. The findings from this study have the potential to make a significant impact on water treatment practices globally.
