Studies on the use of neem products for removal of ammonia from brackishwater

J Environ Sci Health A Tox Hazard Subst Environ Eng. 2002;37(5):893-904. doi: 10.1081/ese-120003595.

Abstract

Laboratory experiments were carried out to investigate the ammonia removal from brackishwater (Salinity 16 +/- 1 ppt) using natural plant products such as seed powder and seed oil from neem (Azadirachta indica) and commercially available neem products-neemazal and neemgold. The experimental results showed that ammonia removal was effective with 90 mg/l of neem oil, whereas, neem seed powder at 90 mg/l registered an increase in ammonia levels throughout the course of the experiment. Neem oil, neemazal, and neemgold at 90 mg/l were effective in decreasing the total ammonia nitrogen (TAN) level of 0.40-0.45 mg/l in 96 h. The effect of initial ammonia concentrations on the ammonia removal using neem oil revealed that percentage ammonia removal decreased with an increase in initial ammonia concentration.

MeSH terms

  • Ammonia / chemistry
  • Ammonia / isolation & purification*
  • Azadirachta / physiology*
  • Biodegradation, Environmental
  • Kinetics
  • Water Pollutants / isolation & purification*
  • Water Purification / methods*

Substances

  • Water Pollutants
  • Ammonia