Elimination of Nitrate from Water using Banana Peel Biomass

Excess nitrate in drinking water can cause methemoglobinemia and could cause cancer, among other major health problems. This study investigates the utilization of biomass from banana peels, an agricultural waste product, as an economical and environmentally friendly biosorbent for the removal of nitrates from contaminated water. Before being used in batch adsorption tests, the banana peels were cleaned, diced, dried, and processed. The findings demonstrated a notable decrease in nitrate concentrations, with longer contact times and an acidic pH promoting the best adsorption. Using Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, functional groups that aid in nitrate binding were identified, including carboxyl and hydroxyl. Through colorimetric changes, the addition of zinc powder to nitrate tests clearly verified the removal of nitrate. This environmentally friendly method demonstrates the potential of biomass from banana peels for water filtration, providing a low-cost remedy for nitrate contamination in rural and developing areas.