Formulation and evaluation of a shampoo made from Saqta root for the reduction of chemical surfactants in gray water

Authors

Nicho Chavez, María C.

Peña Cervantes, Harold R.

Castañeda Olivera, Carlos A.

Benites Alfaro, Elmer G.

Acosta Suasnabar, Eusterio H.

Abstract

The use of cleaning and hygiene products composed of chemical surfactants generates alterations in the aquatic environment causing environmental problems. Thus, the objective of this research was to obtain a shampoo from Saqta root as an alternative to reduce chemical surfactants in gray water. For this purpose, the afrosimetric index and foam density of Saqta root were determined, and surface tension measurements were performed. The results showed that the Saqta root dose of 11 mg/mL was optimal for making shampoo, and its physical and chemical characteristics showed a viscosity of 16560 cP, foam index 0.08 and a pH of 6.5. Analyses of domestic wastewater showed a decrease in the concentration of chemical surfactants from 6.004 mg/L to <0.050 mg/L. Finally, it is concluded that the use of Saqta shampoo influences the decrease of chemical surfactants in gray water and is a sustainable alternative.