Name
Evaluation of Abelmoschus esculentus (Okra) Juice for Efficient Microplastic Removal from Aqueous Systems
Date & Time
Thursday, May 7, 2026, 10:45 AM - 11:00 AM
Description

The growing prevalence of microplastic contamination in aquatic environments poses a significant threat to ecological and human health, necessitating sustainable and efficient removal strateges. This study investigates the potential of Abelmoschus esculentus (okra) juice as a natural, polysaccharide-based flocculant for microplastic removal from water. The okra extract contains long-chain polysaccharides capable of promoting flocculation through a bridging mechanism, wherein polymer chains physically link suspended microplastic particles, forming larger aggregates that can be more easily separated. In this work, a 1000 ppm suspension of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) microplastics in deionized water was treated with okra juice. Post-treatment analysis using filtration and mass balance indicated a reduction in microplastic concentration to approximately 100 ppm, corresponding to a removal efficiency of ~90%. To further elucidate the interaction mechanism, the untreated suspension, treated samples, and okra extract were characterized using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Raman Spectroscopy, and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). FTIR and Raman analyses revealed shifts in characteristic functional groups, suggesting surface bonding interactions between okra polysaccharides and microplastic particles. SEM imaging provided visual confirmation of the formation of flocculated aggregates and adsorption of microplastic particles onto the okra-derived matrix. Overall, the results demonstrate that okra juice serves as an effective, eco-friendly biopolymeric agent for microplastic removal from aqueous systems, offering a promising low-cost and sustainable alternative to conventional treatment methods.

Location Name
201A
Is presenter a student?
Yes