Tratamento parcial da água com tanino extraído da casca do eucalipto: uma proposta sustentável, integrada e alternativa

Abstract

The research analyzed the potential of tannin extracted from eucalyptus bark (Eucalyptus spp.) as a natural coagulant for partial water treatment, aiming to reduce turbidity and understand the pH variations that occur during the process. The plant extract was obtained through aqueous extraction and subjected to cationization, a process that imparts positive charges to the molecules and enhances their coagulating action. The tests were conducted using highly turbid water samples, with concentrations of 150 mg/L and 200 mg/L applied through the Jar Test apparatus. The results indicated that the 200 mg/L concentration showed higher efficiency in removing suspended particles, while pH varied according to time and dosage. Although the values did not reach the potability standards established by Ordinance GM/MS No. 888/2021, the use of tannin proved effective in reducing turbidity and promoting controlled neutralization of the water. The tannin-based coagulant stands out as a promising, economically viable, ecologically appropriate, and socially accessible alternative. Thus, employing eucalyptus bark for tannin extraction represents a sustainable practice that transforms forest residues into value-added inputs, fostering the development of clean and low-cost technologies.