An Experimental study to evaluate the effectiveness of Sphatika mentioned in Sushrutha Samhita in the purification of contaminated water w.s.r to Potash alum.

Abstract

Introduction: Water is vital for the existence and maintenance of health of all the organisms on earth. There has been an exponential rise in global population while the supply of water has remained constant and its demand is increasing at an alarming rate. Around 70% of the earth’s surface is covered with water. However, around 1% of it is only suitable for human consumption. The water pollution is increasing rapidly, degrading the quality of water. Consumption of unsafe water is major cause of water borne diseases. Hence, it is very essential that water should be pure. For this need, the attempt has been made to evaluate the effectiveness of Sphatika (Potash alum) in the purification of contaminated water which is cost effective and simple technique.

Aims and Objectives: To carry out the experiment of Jalaprasadana using Sphatika to evaluate its efficacy on contaminated water.

Methodology: Water samples were collected from the unused well. The water was taken in a glass bottle of 500ml; 1st group was used without any materials and treatment methods. Second group was subjected to filtration. Third group was added with Sphatika (potash alum) in the quantity of 10, 25 and 50 grams. Each of the samples were assessed after 6, 12 and 24 hrs; for the physical, chemical and microbial parameters and compared with the standard values.

Results: After adding of potash alum, the study showed significant increase in DO and Salinity; significant decrease in pH, Conductivity, TDS, Turbidity, TA, Carbonate and Bicarbonate. Bacterial colony count had shown depletion after adding of Potash alum.

Conclusion: Potash alum showed positive results in the purification of water. Potash alum is soluble in water; can be used as coagulating and flocculating agent and  applied prior to sedimentation and filtration process to enhance the ability of a water treatment.