Heavy Metal Removal of Textile Waste Water Using Phytoremediation by Water Mosses

Abstract: The textile industry generates effluents with high concentrations of hazardous heavy metals, posing serious environmental threats if discharged untreated. In this study, an attempt was made by phytoremediation potential of Salvinia molesta, a free – floating aquatic macrophyte, for removing heavy metals from textile wastewater. Experiments were conducted with effluent concentrations of (25%, 50%, 75%, and 100%) and the remediation performance was assessed over 28 days ( for every 7 days). The heavy metals such as Chromium (Cr), Copper (Cu), and Zinc (Zn), which are found in sample were analyzed using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS). Tanks containing Salvinia molesta showed a Cr removal rate (55.7%), Cu removal rate (48.25%), and Zn removal rate (30.50%). A one way ANOVA table was used for statistical analysis to compare the average concentrations (p<0.05) for heavy metals in the effluent and removal efficiencies. This study shows an effective biological approach to treating textile industry effluent with Salvinia molesta, providing a sustainable solution to minimize the risks to its improper disposal.