Optimization of the Use of Chinese Teak Seed Powder Coagulant (Cassia angustifolia) as a Natural Coagulant in Reducing Turbidity of Dug Well Water Using the Jar Test Method

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Natural coagulants are used as much as possible to reduce synthetic materials that produce side effects in their use. The use of natural coagulants will be cheaper than synthetic coagulants, which are commonly used for water purification. Chinese tea seeds (Cassia angustifolia) can reduce turbidity, because they contain complex carbohydrates and sugars that can bind particles in the water. Cassia angustifolia plant may also be used as a coagulation agent for conventional drinking water treatment. AIM: This study aims to determine the optimization of coagulants from Chinese teak seed powder (Cassia angustifolia as a natural coagulant in reducing the turbidity of wells water. METHODS: This study used Cassia angustifolia coagulant for the water treatment coagulation process with turbidity and pH parameters. This was a quasi-experimental study. The Completely Randomized Design (RAL) method was used. The study location was carried out at the Laboratory of the Environmental Health Department, Poltekkes, Ministry of Health, Banda Aceh. The doses used were 10 ppm, 30 ppm, 50 ppm, 70 ppm, and 100 ppm. The data were analyzed by one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). RESULTS: There is a difference in turbidity reduction in dug healthy water when Cassia angustifolia is added at doses of 10 ppm, 30 ppm, 50 ppm, 70 ppm, or 100 ppm. CONCLUSION: Cassia angustifolia coagulant can be used at low turbidity levels with low doses, but it is necessary to investigate the active compound content and its biocoagulant properties.