In depth analysis of groundwater quality and use of Moringa oleifera leaf powder treatment to improve physico-chemical properties and drinkability of contaminated groundwater

Abstract

Groundwater is the major source for domestic, and other uses in the Jaffna Peninsula, Sri Lanka. This study assessed the spatial and seasonal variation of physical and chemical parameters of water collected from domestic wells in Chunnakam and Vadamaradchi aquifers. The measured physicochemical parameters were compared with the drinking water standards established by Sri Lanka Standards Institution. Significant spatial variations in the water quality parameters were identified in both areas. Significantly elevated levels of nitrate and oil & grease were identified in Chunnakam, whereas significantly elevated levels of DO and pH were recorded in Vadamaradchi. Nitrate concentration of the wells ranged between 0.021–40.1 mg/ L. Oil & grease of these wells ranged from 0.011 to 0.373 mg/L. In Chunnakam, 60% of sampled wells had nitrate level above the permitted nitrate standard level, and all the wells had elevated oil and grease concentration above the permitted standard limit. Filtration of water through Moringa oleifera leaf powder could significantly reduce the nitrate an oil and grease concentrations, thereby improving the quality of water.