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International Research Journal of Engineering and Technology (IRJET)

e-ISSN: 2395-0056

Volume: 13 Issue: 01 | Jan 2026

p-ISSN: 2395-0072

www.irjet.net

Experimental Study on Bio-Adsorbents for Borewell Water Treatment Harshal Ughade1, Vaishnavi Agre2, Kasif Shekh3, Syed Umair4, Pooja Mankar5, Saurabh Chavhan6 1,2,3,4 Under Graduate Student, Jawaharlal Darda Institute of Engineering and Technology, Yavatmal,,

5, Assist. Professor, Dept. of Civil Engineering, Jawaharlal Darda Institute of Engineering and Technology,

Yavatmal,

6 Assist. Professor, Dept. of Civil Engineering, Jawaharlal Darda Institute of Engineering and Technology, Yavatmal,

Maharashtra, India ---------------------------------------------------------------------***---------------------------------------------------------------------

Abstract - The decline in groundwater quality has become a

Traditional treatment methods like chlorination, reverse osmosis, ion exchange, and coagulation are widely practiced for water purification. Although these processes effectively remove impurities, they are associated with high operational costs, complex maintenance, and the generation of secondary waste [3]. Therefore, the search for simple, economical, and sustainable purification alternatives has gained significant attention in recent years. One promising approach involves the use of bio-based adsorbents derived from agricultural and plant wastes, which are biodegradable, cost-effective, and rich in natural functional groups suitable for contaminant removal [4]. The present research focuses on the experimental evaluation of bio-based materials— Neem bark powder, Tamarind seed powder, Orange/Lemon peel powder, and Activated Charcoal—for borewell water purification. These materials were selected because of their natural abundance, high adsorption potential, and environmental compatibility. Neem (Azadirachta indica) has been recognized for its antibacterial and heavy-metal removal properties. Its bark and leaves contain cellulose, lignin, and tannins that act as active sites for adsorption of metallic ions and microbial impurities [5]. Earlier studies have demonstrated that neem bark can effectively reduce heavy metal concentrations such as zinc, cadmium, and arsenic, and improve the overall quality of contaminated water [6]. Tamarind (Tamarindus indica) seed powder is another effective bio-adsorbent with notable surface porosity and a high carbon content. Activated carbon derived from tamarind seeds has exhibited efficient adsorption capacity for metals such as Fe(III) and Pb(II) as well as organic dyes [7]. This not only enhances water quality but also promotes the reuse of agro-residues that are typically discarded as waste. Similarly, citrus fruit wastes such as orange and lemon peels are rich in pectin, cellulose, and polyphenolic compounds, which make them effective natural adsorbents. Studies have reported that activated carbon produced from orange and lemon peels can remove 90–95% of pollutants depending on the activation method and pollutant type [8, 9]. Activated charcoal, known for its extensive surface area and strong adsorption ability, has long been used in water treatment for the removal of organic and inorganic pollutants. It effectively eliminates odor, color, and toxic substances from water through physical adsorption [10]. When combined with natural bioadsorbents such as neem bark and citrus peels, the overall

serious challenge, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas where borewell water is the main source for domestic needs. The present research investigates the purification performance of natural bio-based materials such as Neem bark, Tamarind seed powder, Orange/Lemon peel powder, and Activated Charcoal for treating borewell water. These materials are locally available, biodegradable, and inexpensive, offering an environmentally sound substitute for conventional chemical treatments. Neem bark contains phytochemicals like azadirachtin and nimb in that exhibit strong antimicrobial and adsorptive behavior, aiding in the removal of organic and microbial contaminants. Tamarind seed powder serves as a natural coagulant that reduces turbidity and heavy-metal content, while citrus peel powder, rich in pectin and polyphenols, adsorbs fluoride, calcium, and magnesium ions, improving both color and taste. Activated Charcoal, with its extensive surface area and porous structure, enhances overall adsorption of residual impurities. Laboratory batch experiments were conducted at varying pH, contact time, and dosage levels to identify optimum operational conditions. The combined application of these materials achieved contaminant removal efficiencies ranging from 85 to 95 percent, significantly improving water quality indicators such as hardness, fluoride, and bacterial count. The findings demonstrate that these bio-adsorbents provide a low-cost, sustainable, and decentralized option for household water purification, supporting Sustainable Development Goal (SDG 6) – Clean Water and Sanitation.

1) INTRODUCTION Water is one of the most vital natural resources, essential for human survival, ecosystem stability, and socio-economic growth. In India, groundwater forms the backbone of the water supply network, catering to nearly 80% of the rural and 50% of the urban population [1]. Among different groundwater sources, borewells are widely used due to their continuous availability throughout the year. However, the quality of borewell water is often compromised by the presence of dissolved solids, heavy metals, hardness, and microbial impurities. Factors such as excessive extraction, agricultural runoff, and industrial discharge further aggravate groundwater contamination, making it unsafe for domestic consumption without suitable treatment [2].

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