Study of flocculation power of Cocos nucifera acidic casein cream during the clarification of raw surface waters
The clarification process is an important step during the treatment of raw waters. For this reason, under-developed countries have undertaken research on vegetable flocculants. In this context we determined the flocculation power of acidic casein from Cocos nucifera cream. This flocculant contains 83% organic matter and 17% mineral matter. The results of a clarification jar-test, carried out in the laboratory, indicated that the flocculant power is inferior to that of aluminium sulphate, but higher than Moringa oleifera seed powder. The metal concentrations present in raw water were significantly reduced by the treatment; 79% for aluminium, 54% for copper, 58% for iron and 80% for zinc. The pH and complete alkalimetric titer (CAT) values also slightly decreased. However, the Chemical Oxygen Demand and the Biochemical Oxygen Demand slightly increased.