Formulation development, characterization and evaluation of nanoemulsions containing Moringa oleifera seed proteins as biocoagulant for water purification

The availability and supply of potable water remains elusive especially in low-income economies with attendant life-threatening health risks. Moringa oleifera seed proteins have been reported to possess water purification activity; thus, there is a need to prepare the proteins in a useable, sustainable, and readily acceptable manner through nanotechnology. This work is aimed at developing, characterizing, and evaluating nanoemulsions loaded with proteins extracted from M. oleifera seeds for water purification. Various batches of nanoemulsions were formulated by spontaneous emulsification and their globule sizes, morphology, pH, viscosity, and protein encapsulation efficiency were determined. In vitro release of M. oleifera protein from the nanoemulsions and the stability profile of the formulations were investigated. Water quality parameters endorsed by the WHO including coagulation efficiency, pH, total dissolved solids, alkalinity level, and total coliform number were estimated following treatment of water samples with the nanoemulsions. Formulation globules had nanometric size range (103-212 nm), were morphologically spherical, had pH range of 6.71-7.23, were a Newtonian system, recorded 90% protein encapsulation efficiency, had sustained release character, and had acceptable stability especially when stored at 27 °C. Protein-loaded nanoemulsions showed good coagulation activity with about 97% efficiency. Treated water recorded pH, temperature, alkalinity, and conductivity within acceptable limits, and contained very low dissolved solids and total coliform count. In conclusion, the study highlighted the efficiency of nanoemulsions containing M. oleifera seed proteins as biocoagulants for water purification.