Evaluation of a phyto-coagulant in removal of Acid Red 252

Dyes are an important category of organic pollutants, with their harmful effects known in aquatic life, and in particular humans. Textile industries are one of the largest consumers of dyes. These industries are considered to be the largest wastewater producers, and their effluent contains significant amounts of dye organic compounds. The presence of organic dyestuffs in industrial effluents, due to the prevention of light penetration into the water, photosynthesis disruptions, and their toxic effects, cause great harm to the environment. Therefore, in order to prevent the spread of harmful damage to human health, other living organisms and environmental protection, the treatment of textile wastewater is inevitable. Various methods have been used for removal of dyes from wastewaters. Each of these methods has disadvantages and advantages. The coagulation and flocculation using plant extracts is an economical and environmentally-friendly method. This study was carried out to remove red dye 252 (AR 252) by coagulation with Carpobrotus edulis extract. The results of the study showed that the highest removal efficiency was obtained at pH = 4 using 4 cc of the plant extract and was around 88%. Therefore, the process of coagulation and flocculation with the use of herbal extracts of Carpobrotus edulis can be considered as a method of economic justification and in order to protect the environment.