Evaluation of Changeri Masi (Oxalis corniculata Linn.) in altering the copper concentration in water

Abstract

Introduction: The presence of heavy metals in water has been increasing with industrial growth and human activities. The major source of copper in drinking water is corrosion of household plumbing, faucets, and water fixtures.  Most commonly used copper salt is copper sulphate (CuSO4. 5H2O). It is used as a general pesticide rated as toxicity class 1 highly toxic. Unfortunately, most people are not aware of the safe level and they overuse it causing residue in soil, water, which endangers human and environment. According to EPA the permissible amount of copper in drinking water is 1.3mg/L. As Cu is non-biodegradable, poisonous, and easy to accumulate in living organisms in general and especially in the human body at low concentrations; they can cause major illnesses such as cancer, nervous system damage, and kidney failure, and can be fatal at high doses. hence, it’s important to remove Cu metal from water as well as wastewater. Materials and Methods: Changeri (Oxalis corniculata Lin.) plant is collected as a whole, dried and prepared Changeri Masi (ash) out of it. Copper contaminated water was prepared by adding copper sulphate in distilled water. Amount of copper were evaluated with AAS and fixed to 3mg/L. Different concentration of Changeri Masi was added to copper contaminated water and keep it for different contact time. Results: Changeri Masi mixed copper water filtered through a filter paper and reading was taken in atomic absorption spectroscopy. Significant reduction in copper was observed.