Wastewater treatment potential of Moringa stenopetala over Moringa olifera as a natural coagulant, antimicrobial agent and heavy metal removals

Abstract

Moringa is a multipurpose tree with considerable economic and social potential and its cultivation is currently being actively promoted in many developing countries. Seeds of this tropical tree contain water-soluble, positively charged proteins that act as an effective coagulant for water and wastewater treatment. This study evaluated the effectiveness of Moringa oleifera and Moringa stenopetala seed powder in water purification as a replacement coagulant. Water treatment with M. stenopetala was found to be more effective for water purification than treatment with M. oleifera seed. Indeed, it has been given little research and development attention. Unlike M. oleifera, little scientific research has been conducted on the properties and potential uses of M. stenopetala in general and its seeds in particular. However, the method should be encouraged in communities without safe water supply.