Treatment of Iron Pollution in the Waters of Bayelsa and Environs Using Innovative In-Country Technology

Abstract

Brown discolouration of surfaces caused by water supply in most parts of Bayelsa State is attributed to the presence of iron (Fe) in the aquifer. Consequently, the colourless water pumped from source eventually turns brown on exposure to the atmosphere. The purpose of this study is to proffer solution to this menace. Hence, a treatment option using an in-country technology that focuses on the removal of causative iron metal specie from source was studied. The aim is to remove the metal from source and prevent the transformation to brown colour. The effect of a biogenic de-pollutant (BGD) formulated from locally sourced materials on the removal of Fe from water was investigated as a function of BGD concentration. Impact on three water quality parameters namely pH, electrical conductivity (EC) and total dissolved solid (TDS) were evaluated following standard procedures. Results showed that BGD could remove up to 471 mg Fe/L at concentration ? 10 mg BDG/L. Pearson correlation revealed strong and positive relationship between Fe removal efficiency and BGD concentration with correlation coefficient (r) of 0.922, significant at p = 0.028. Treatment did not negatively impact TDS, pH and EC values. Study revealed that BDG has a great potential to solving the Fe pollution menace in Bayelsa waters or any other place with similar issue. It is recommended that further studies be conducted, aimed at optimization of this innovative technology for field applications. Study is a contribution to sustainable development goal No.6 (Clean water and Sanitation).

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