Effect of Guggul ash on physico-chemical properties of water

Abstract

The present paper focuses on properties of Commiphora wightii, Guggul- oleo-gum resin ash and it potential in water purification. The aqueous solution of ash is strongly alkaline (pH-12.57). The minerals-phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium, sodium and aluminum were quantified 3.22, 56.05-, 234.45, 250.05, 5.3 and 19.32 g/kg d.m. respectively. The micronutrients iron and copper i.e. 0.013 and 0.099 g/kg d.m. were also present in ash, while mercury content was absent in the ash. The ash treatment affect quality of water significantly and after addition of ash, pH, color and odor of water changed, alkaline to neutral, colourless and odorless. Significant reduction in conductivity, TDS, hardness, BOD and COD were observed due to addition of Guggul ash in sewage, pond and tap water, respectively. The microbial population was also found decreased over control or untreated water.