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VOL. 9, ISSUE 1 (2025)
Evaluation of Sclerocarya Birrea (Marula) seed kernel as a sustainable natural coagulant for Gubi Dam water treatment
Authors
Gizaki Bukata Yakubu
Abstract
Access to potable water remains a major
challenge in many developing countries due to the limitations of conventional
chemical coagulants such as alum and ferric chloride. This study investigates
the efficiency of Sclerocarya birrea (Marula) seed kernel as a
sustainable natural coagulant for treating raw water from Gubi Dam, Bauchi
State, Nigeria. Physicochemical and microbial analyses were conducted on raw
water samples, followed by jar test experiments comparing Marula seed extract
with alum. Parameters analyzed included turbidity, pH, total dissolved solids,
nitrates, microbial load, and heavy metal concentrations. Results revealed that
Marula seed kernel achieved turbidity removal efficiency of 84.5%, comparable
to alum (86.2%), while maintaining a neutral pH within WHO standards (6.5–8.5).
Marula demonstrated superior microbial reduction and greater efficiency in
lowering trace heavy metals such as Fe and Pb. ANOVA confirmed significant
differences (p < 0.05) in pH stabilization and microbial removal between
Marula and alum treatments. The findings highlight Marula seed kernel as a
viable, low-cost, and eco-friendly alternative to chemical coagulants, with
potential to reduce health risks and support sustainable water management in
Nigeria.
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Pages:34-39
How to cite this article:
Gizaki Bukata Yakubu "Evaluation of <i>Sclerocarya Birrea</i> (Marula) seed kernel as a sustainable natural coagulant for Gubi Dam water treatment". International Journal of Advanced Engineering and Technology, Vol 9, Issue 1, 2025, Pages 34-39
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