Work

Efficient Removal of Nickel, Zinc, Chromium, and Cobalt from Acid Mine Drainage using Constructed Wetlands

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: This study evaluates the effectiveness of Constructed Wetlands (CWs) in treating Acid Mine Drainage (AMD), focusing on the removal of Ni, Zn, Cr, and Co. Two CW configurations were tested: CW-I (unplanted) and CW-II (planted with Alocasia odora and Spirodela polyrhiza). Over 12 months, both systems operated at Hydraulic Retention Times (HRTs) of 24, 48, and 72 hours. CW-II consistently outperformed CW-I, achieving 88.1% Zn and 67.8% Cr removal at 72 hours. Ni removal improved to 44.3%, while Co, though less effectively removed, reached 28.3%. . The statistical analysis confirmed that both HRT and vegetation significantly influenced metal removal efficiencies. The enhanced performance of CW-II highlights the critical role of phytoremediation in the pollutant uptake. These findings demonstrate that vegetated CWs offer a scalable, eco-friendly alternative for AMD treatment, with potential applications in broader environmental remediation efforts. Further research should focus in plant optimization, real-world validation, and substrate and system design.

Source: Engineering Technology & Applied Science Research

DOI: 10.48084/etasr.9811

Authors: Nongmaithem Anand, Konsam Rambha Devi

Institution: Manipur University

Language: English

Topic: Mine drainage and remediation techniques

Subfield: Environmental Chemistry

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Clean water and sanitation, Responsible consumption and production

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $431