Comparative Techno-Economic Analysis of Coagulation Treatments for Palm Oil Mill Effluent (POME)

Abstract

Palm Oil Mill Effluent (POME), a by-product of palm oil processing, contains high levels of chemical oxygen demand (COD), total suspended solids (TSS), and turbidity. Effective treatment is crucial for environmental compliance and sustainability in the palm oil industry. Among available treatment methods, coagulation is recognized for its simplicity and efficiency in removing suspended pollutants. This study presents a comparative techno-economic analysis of five selected coagulants: alum, ferric chloride, polyaluminium chloride (PAC), Moringa oleifera seed extract seed extract, and alum–Grewia biopolymer mixture. Using literature-sourced data, removal performances were estimated for COD, TSS, and turbidity based on baseline POME characteristics (COD: 60,000 mg/L; TSS: 25,000 mg/L; turbidity: 35,000 NTU). Cost estimations were performed by considering coagulant production (for natural- based systems), application, utilities, and equipment depreciation. Based on the results of current study, despite PAC achieved the highest pollutant removal efficiency, ferric chloride recorded the highest cost-effectiveness (COD/RM: 14,600 ppm/RM; TSS/RM: 6,456 ppm/RM; Turbidity/RM: 8,823 NTU/RM). The hybrid coagulant system offered a balance between performance and sustainability, making it a viable alternative in eco- conscious applications. Conversely, Moringa oleifera seed extract seed extract, despite its biodegradability, had limited cost-efficiency due to its high production cost (RM 40.00). This study concludes that ferric chloride is the most economically viable coagulant for industrial-scale POME treatment, while hybrid systems offer an environmentally friendly compromise. Future work should include experimental validation, life cycle assessment, and production optimization of natural coagulants to enhance their industrial competitiveness.