ECONOMIC METHOD OF REMOVAL OF ARSENIC IN WATER FOR RURAL COMMUNITIES

Abstract

We found the ability to remove arsenic using filtration technology with Green Sand, in several experimental conditions, in samples of synthetic and underground water in the provinces of Santa Fe and Santiago del Estero, Argentina. The removal efficiency was found 96.3% for arsenic concentrations ranging between 0.038 and 0.608 mg/L, achieving the mantle filter retain 9.72 mg of arsenic per liter of Green Sand. The optimum flow of filtering for cross-section of the prototype tested was 0.50 L/min, it could be obtained in 8 hours of daily operational 240 L of water with arsenic concentrations not risky to health. This study represents an effective alternative, it does not require sophisticated technological development, it is low-cost, easy implementation, uses no electrical energy and complies with the recommendations of reference of arsenic in water for human consumption.

Key words: water for human consumption, rural communities, Green Sand, removal of arsenic.