Removal of Heavy Metals (Copper and Lead) from Industrial Wastewater Using Low-Cost, Naturally Derived Moringa oleifera Seeds

Water bodies near the Ashuliya industrial area in Dhaka, Bangladesh, contain heavy metals such as copper and lead due to the discharge of industrial wastewater from dyeing and textile industries. It has significant environmental and public health risks. The study investigates the use of Moringa oleifera Seed powder as a natural coagulant for industrial wastewater treatment. Three individual dosages (0.50g, 1.0g, 1.5g) were used to treat the wastewater and mixed for 1, 2, and 3 hours. The results demonstrate a 100% removal rate of Pb and a significant removal rate for Cu, with an approximate 73.31% removal efficiency. Other wastewater parameters, such as EC, TDS, and Salinity, were observed in noticeable reductions. However, the pH value remained unchanged, indicating that Mo Seed Powder did not affect the acidity and alkalinity of the water. Overall, the findings indicate that Moringa oleifera seed powder has the potential to remove heavy metals from wastewater and is efficient, natural, and economical.