Evaluating Bio-coagulant Efficiency: Sustainable Alternatives for Microplastic Removal from Water

Overview

Microplastics (MPs), are emerging as a significant environmental and health pollutant of increasing global concern. MPs, defined as tiny water-insoluble plastic particles less than 5mm in size, are present in drinking water sources worldwide. Their small size, persistence in terrestrial and aquatic environments, ability to adsorb chemical contaminants, and potential to bioaccumulate and cause adverse health effects highlight the critical need for effective removal strategies. This project evaluated the microplastic removal efficiency of synthetic coagulant, Alum, and three bio-coagulants - Ulva lactuca, Chlorella vulgaris, and Psyllium - both individually and in various combinations using the coagulation-flocculation-sedimentation (CFS) process. The results indicated that Psyllium performed the best, with the highest removal percentage of 90.30%. Essentially, as MP research rapidly advances, and identification strategies and removal technologies continue to be developed, bio-coagulants offer a promising and sustainable alternative to synthetic coagulants for MP removal from aquatic sources, particularly, drinking water systems.

Awards (4)

• Challenge Award
• Special Award
• Gold Medal
• Selected for CWSF 2026

Competition history

• CWSF 2026 Environment & Climate Change

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