Performance analysis of bamboo-based (Bambusa vulgaris) activated carbon in aquaculture wastewater treatment

In the light of considerable pressure on scarce freshwater sources due to various competing demands, different techniques and materials have been used still in use treat wastewaters which considered as healthy alternatives minimize pressure. Bamboo-based (Bambusa vulgaris) activated carbon, produced using carbonization activation processes was wastewater obtained from aquaculture research farm Federal University Technology, Akure. Initial final characterization samples were performed for 17 physicochemical, 7 heavy metals, 2 microbiological parameters amongst electrical conductivity (EC), calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), alkalinity, acidity. Others are total dissolved solids (TDS), nitrate (Na), nitrite (Ni), oxygen (DO). Heavy metals tested chromium (Cr), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), zinc (Zn), nickel (Ni) while coliform viable counts bacteria, yeast, fungi also analyzed. These analyses following American Public Health Association (APHA 2005), results subjected statistical relevant tools such SPSS 16 version, Analysis variance (ANOVA) Duncan Multiple Range Test at a 95% level significance. Removal efficiencies between initial physicochemical with adsorbents marginal except Ca acidity having 61% 62%, respectively, carbonated charcoal. Furthermore, acidity, nitrate, sulphate 58%, 57% removal HNO3 AC, 60% 75% recorded nitrite, KOH’s AC. All experienced efficiency ranging 71 100% The efficacy when compared charcoal treatment, highlighted. However, AC confirmed be more effective metal its widespread pore spaces deeper cavities depicting very good surface adsorption capacity.