Arsenic Removal from Groundwater Using Moringa oleifera A Sustainable Alternative for the Treatment of Aquifers in Entre Ríos

Authors

  • Silvana Spizzo Facultad de Ciencias Agropecuarias-UNER
  • Maria Valeria Ormaechea Facultad de Ciencias Agropecuarias -UNER
  • Beatriz Rosalia Bot Facultad de Ciencias Agropecuarias -UNER
  • Helena Francisconi Facultad de Ciencias Agropecuarias -UNER
  • Agustin Chiarello Facultad de Ciencias Agropecuarias -UNER
  • Facundo Manuel Zaballo Facultad de Ciencias Agropecuarias -UNER

Abstract

Naturally occurring arsenic in groundwater intended for human consumption represents a significant public health concern. Regulatory frameworks, such as the Argentine Food Code (0.01 mg/L) and Decree 2235/02 (0.05 mg/L), have established permissible limits for arsenic concentrations in drinking water. This study investigated the effectiveness of Moringa oleifera seeds in removing arsenic from two groundwater wells located in Colonia Ensayo (Paraná Aquifer). Two treatment methods were compared: Moringa seeds with seed coat (Treatment A) and without seed coat (Treatment B).

The results revealed a significant interaction between the treatment type and the water source (p < 0.001), indicating that the efficiency of Moringa is influenced by the specific characteristics of the water. This was further supported by a strong negative correlation (r = -0.87) between arsenic removal efficiency and bicarbonate concentration. These findings highlight the importance of considering water chemistry when applying Moringa oleifera seed powder as a remediation method. Given its sustainable and eco-friendly nature, Moringa oleifera represents a promising alternative for reducing arsenic levels in drinking water.

Future research should focus on optimizing application parameters for water sources with varying physicochemical characteristics and exploring the feasibility of medium-scale implementation.

Published

19-12-2025