Tratamiento de aguas meteóricas con coagulantes orgánicos y calidad del agua para consumo humano, Provincia de Huamanga, 2023

This research addresses the global problem of water scarcity and lack of sanitation, which affects 2.1 billion people (WHO, 2017), and the similar situation in Huamanga, where residents demand improvements in sanitation services. Given this concern, the use of organic coagulants, specifically Moringa mucilage, in the treatment of meteoric waters was evaluated. Laboratory experiments showed that an optimal dose of 15 mg/L reduced turbidity by 55%, reaching levels below 5 NTU, in line with WHO standards. Additionally, improvements were observed in electrical conductivity (<1,500 µS/cm), total dissolved solids (<450 mg/L), and pH (6.8-7.2), ensuring the suitability of the treated water for human consumption. These results coincide with previous studies and confirm the effectiveness of Moringa mucilage as a natural coagulant. Its use not only improved water quality by reducing contaminants and pathogenic microorganisms, but also positioned itself as a sustainable and economical alternative to chemical coagulants. The study highlights the feasibility of employing Moringa in regions such as Huamanga, improving access to safe and sustainable drinking water, and providing a framework for future research and practical applications that could positively impact the quality of life of the local population.