From Natural to Industrial: How Biocoagulants Can Revolutionize Wastewater Treatment
Renata Machado Pereira da Silva, Bruna Silva de Farias, Sibele Santos Fernandes
Abstract
The environmental impacts of industrial processes have increased the demand for sustainable alternatives in wastewater treatment. Conventional chemical coagulants, though widely used, can generate toxic residues and pose environmental and health risks. Biocoagulants, derived from natural and renewable sources, offer a biodegradable and eco-friendly alternative. This review explores their potential to replace synthetic coagulants by analyzing their origins, mechanisms of action, and applications. A total of 15 studies published between 2020 and 2025 were analyzed, all focused on industrial wastewater. These studies demonstrated that biocoagulants can achieve similar, or the superior, removal of turbidity (>67%), solids (>83%), and heavy metals in effluents from food, textile, metallurgical, and paper industries. While raw materials are often inexpensive, processing costs may increase production expenses. However, life cycle assessments suggest long-term advantages due to reduced sludge and environmental impact. A textile industry case study showed a 25% sludge reduction and improved biodegradability using a plant-based biocoagulant compared to aluminum sulfate. Transforming this waste into inputs for wastewater treatment not only reduces negative impacts from disposal but also promotes integrated environmental management aligned with circular economy and cleaner production principles. The review concludes that biocoagulants constitute a viable and sustainable alternative for industrial wastewater treatment.