Identification of suitable processing method for maximum Silica Extraction from Water Hyacinth

¹ Assiatant Proffessor, Department of Civil Engineering, Haldia Institute of Technology, Haldia, India -721657
² B.Tech Student, Department of Civil Engineering, Haldia Institute of Technology, Haldia, India – 721657

Abstract

Water hyacinth ( Eichhornia crassipes), an invasive aquatic species, presents a dual opportunity for environmental remediation and sustainable material development. The study aims to not only address biomass waste management but also contributes to reducing carbon emissions by partially replacing cement, a major CO₂-emitting material. In the present study three distinct processing methods are undertaken namely, osmotic treatment, sun-drying, and fermentation. In order to determine the effectiveness of the processes in obtaining desired silica content to render it as suitable substitute of cement for sustainable construction, X-ray diffraction (XRD) results are obtained. The results indicate significant variation of silica content, the fermentation process demonstrating the highest percentage followed by the osmotic and sun-drying methods. The findings suggest that water hyacinth processed through fermentation can enhance silica recovery and support eco-friendly construction material development.