Fluoride Removal by Spherical Agglomeration Technique Process in Water Using Sunflower Oil as a Sustainable Alternative to n-Heptane

Fluoride contamination in water sources presents critical public health challenges, particularly in regions where groundwater exhibits elevated fluoride levels. Chronic exposure can result in dental and skeletal fluorosis, necessitating efficient and sustainable remediation strategies. This study investigates the spherical agglomeration technique (SAT) as an alternative fluoride removal method, assessing the performance of sunflower oil versus n-heptane as humectants and evaluating the synergistic effects of Agave durangensis leaf extract. A factorial experimental design optimized dosage parameters in aqueous models and well water samples, ensuring reliable fluoride removal. Sunflower oil significantly outperformed n-heptane, achieving fluoride removal efficiencies of up to 95.19% under optimal conditions (5 mL Hum/g TMCs at pH 6.5). Incorporating A. durangensis extract sustained high fluoride removal while reducing the required extract dosage to 0.5 g Extr/g TMCs. When applied to well water samples, the SAT consistently maintained an 88.9% fluoride removal efficiency. Compared to conventional methods such as coagulation–flocculation and adsorption, the SAT demonstrated enhanced effectiveness with a lower environmental footprint. These findings reinforce the viability of sunflower oil and A. durangensis extract as eco-friendly alternatives to n-heptane, positioning the SAT as a scalable, cost-effective solution for large-scale fluoride remediation.