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Researchers at Tarleton State University have made a significant breakthrough in the battle against microplastic pollution, discovering that natural polymers derived from okra and fenugreek can effectively remove microplastics from various water sources. Published in the journal ACS Omega, the study reveals that these plant extracts can eliminate up to 90 percent of microplastics from ocean, freshwater, and groundwater.
The research team, led by Rajani Srinivasan, has been investigating plant-based solutions for environmental cleanup. By extracting polysaccharides—a type of natural polymer—from okra and fenugreek, they found that these substances can clump microplastics, making them easier to remove from water. The process involved soaking sliced okra and blending fenugreek seeds in water overnight to create a powder rich in these effective polymers.
Initial laboratory tests demonstrated the effectiveness of the plant powders in distilled water mixed with microplastics. One gram of either powder in a liter of water achieved impressive removal rates: fenugreek extracts eliminated 93 percent of microplastics, while okra removed 67 percent. A combination of both powders reached 70 percent efficiency in just 30 minutes.
Further testing with real-world water samples from Texas revealed varying effectiveness based on water type. In ocean water, okra was most efficient, removing about 80 percent of microplastics. In groundwater, fenugreek excelled with removal rates between 80 and 90 percent, while the okra-fenugreek mixture was most effective in freshwater, achieving a 77 percent removal rate.
This plant-based approach offers a biodegradable and nontoxic alternative to synthetic chemicals like polyacrylamide, commonly used in wastewater treatment but associated with health risks. The use of okra and fenugreek extracts not only addresses the issue of microplastic pollution but does so without introducing additional toxic substances into the water supply.
The research was funded by several organizations, including the U.S. Department of Energy, the Welch Foundation, and the National Science Foundation. As concerns over microplastic contamination continue to rise, this innovative study highlights the potential of harnessing natural resources for environmental sustainability.
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