Optimization of a bio adsorbent-integrated multiple barrier technique for palm oil mill effluent treatment
Keywords:
Palm oil mill effluent (POME), multiple barrier technique (MBT), bio adsorbent, wastewater treatment, sustainable remediationAbstract
Palm oil mill effluent (POME) is a highly polluting wastewater generated in large volumes in agrarian regions, posing serious environmental and public health concerns if discharged untreated. This study investigates the effectiveness of a bio adsorbent-integrated multiple barrier technique (MBT) for the treatment and quality improvement of POME. The treatment system consisted of sequential physical (sieving and sedimentation), chemical (coagulation and flocculation), and adsorption processes, followed by disinfection. A modified cellulosic bio adsorbent derived from orange mesocarp was incorporated into the adsorption stage to enhance contaminant removal. Operational parameters for each treatment stage were optimized to achieve maximum efficiency. Optimum conditions were obtained at 53 µm sieve size, 3 hours sedimentation time, 5 mg/l alum and 5 mg/l lime for coagulation–flocculation, 0.3 g adsorbent dosage with 20 minutes contact time, and 1.0 mg/l calcium hypochlorite for disinfection. The integrated treatment system achieved substantial reductions in key pollution indicators, including total solids (96.19%), suspended solids (97.57%), dissolved solids (91.19%), biochemical oxygen demand (77.18%), and chemical oxygen demand (60.98%). Significant reductions in microbial load were also observed, alongside improvements in dissolved oxygen and pH towards acceptable limits. The results demonstrate that the synergistic combination of multiple treatment processes with a low-cost, eco-friendly bio adsorbent significantly enhances POME remediation efficiency. This approach offers a sustainable and practical solution for wastewater management and potential reuse in resource-limited settings. Further studies on adsorbent characterization, economic feasibility, and large-scale application are recommended.
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