DEVELOPMENT OF SCALE INHIBITOR FROM ALOE VERA LEAF AND PAPAYA PEEL

ABSTRACT Scale inhibitors (SIs) are chemicals that, when added in small quantities to a scaling medium, can significantly reduce or prevent the formation of scale. Scale refers to crystalline deposits (typically salts) that result from the precipitation of mineral components in water. Effective scale prevention requires early pretreatment, the use of appropriate inhibitors, and an understanding of the scale’s composition. Many synthetic scale inhibitors, however, pose serious risks to human health and the environment. Due to the harmful effects of these chemicals and increasing environmental regulations, there is a growing need for natural, renewable, safe, cost-effective, and eco-friendly alternatives. In this study, Aloe vera and papaya leaves were locally sourced and utilized as potential natural scale inhibitors. To prepare the extract, 100 grams of dried Aloe vera leaf powder and 500 milliliters of papaya peel were each dissolved in 500 milliliters of ethanol at 90°C. The resulting solution was diluted, and crystallization was carried out at 85°C. The mixture was then filtered, and the solid residues were collected, weighed, and recorded. As shown in Table 4, the total dissolved solids (TDS) increased with temperature, suggesting that the inhibitor performs more effectively at elevated temperatures. This research highlights the potential of Aloe vera and papaya leaves as viable, sustainable alternatives to synthetic inhibitors. Their natural origin, biodegradability, safety, and availability make them promising candidates for industrial application.