Environmental Assessment and Treatment of Kirkuk Well Water Using Activated Charcoal and Walnut Shells

Section: Research Article
Issue
Vol. 3 No. 2 (2025): Journal of Rafidain Environment July 2025
Published
Oct 6, 2025
Pages
49-59

Abstract

     This study aimed to assess the quality of groundwater used for garden irrigation in Kirkuk Governorate. The study conducted a comprehensive field survey and chemical analysis of water from twelve wells distributed across the governorate. The analyses focused on several key chemical indicators that affect the suitability of water for irrigation purposes, such as sulfate (SO₄²⁻), chloride (Cl⁻), and total hardness.


The results showed that the water extracted from all wells fell within acceptable limits according to approved irrigation water standards, indicating its general feasibility for use in this field. However, some wells recorded relatively high concentrations of certain chemical elements, particularly sulfate, chloride, and hardness, which could negatively impact soil and plants in the long term if not treated or diluted. To reduce the concentrations of these elements and improve water quality, an environmental treatment approach was adopted using chemical adsorption techniques. This approach utilized low-cost, highly effective adsorption materials: walnut shells (a natural organic material rich in active groups such as hydroxyl and carboxyl) and activated carbon (known for its high porosity and large surface area).


Activated charcoal and walnut shells were used for environmental remediation on the water samples under study under controlled experimental conditions. The results showed a significant decrease in the concentration of the target elements, confirming the effectiveness of adsorption processes in removing pollutants from groundwater and effectively improving its quality.


This study highlights the importance of adopting sustainable environmental solutions for water treatment, particularly those that rely on municipal solid waste such as walnut shells or locally available materials, which combine economic efficiency with environmental effectiveness.

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Author

Muhammed Khidir Muhammed

Identifiers

https://doi.org/10.33899/jre.v3i2.49936
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