Parametrical Study for the Effective Removal of Mordant Black 11 from Synthetic Solutions: Moringa oleifera Seeds’ Extracts Versus Alum

Abstract

Prior studies have examined the ability of Moringa oleifera (MO) seed extract, among other natural coagulants, to remove several types of dyes. MO has been proven to have a high capacity to remove some anionic dyes. The aim of the present study is to explore the possible use of aqueous and saline extracts of MO as biocoagulants for the removal of Mordant Black (MB11) from aqueous solution. Their performances were compared to that of aluminum sulfate (alum). To do so, various operating parameters were investigated such as coagulant dose (100–600 mg/L), pH (3–11), initial dye concentration (100–350 mg/L), sodium chloride concentration (0.2–2 M), and sedimentation time (15–90 min). The maximum percentages of MB11 removal were found to be 98.65%, 80.12%, and 95.02% for alum, aqueous extract of MO (MOPW), and saline extract of MO (MOPS), respectively, at around pH 6.5 and for coagulant doses of 400 mg/L (alum) and 500 mg/L (MOPW and MOPS). The coagulation-flocculation mechanism of biocoagulants was hypothesized to be adsorption and charge neutralization. The two biocoagulants (MOPW and MOPS) showed an interesting versatility towards pH counter to alum which was very sensitive to this parameter. pH variations were measured for the three coagulants and proven to be negligible for the biocoagulants. Faster sedimentation time was recorded when MOPW and MOPS were used, suggesting the existence of larger quickly settleable flocs. Considering their high coagulative capacity, rapid and cost-effective preparation, and eco-friendly character, MO extracts can be considered as powerful alternatives to aluminum sulfate in the remediation of MB11 from wastewaters.