Optimization of Calcium Oxide in Water Softening Process

Abstract

Water is an essential resource that sustains all life forms and plays
a fundamental role in economic development. Hard water,
containing high levels of calcium and magnesium ions, poses
significant water quality problems worldwide. This study aims to
optimize the use of calcium oxide in the water-softening process.
Water samples were collected from three different LGAs: Irele,
Odigbo, and Okitipupa. The samples were analyzed to evaluate the
effects of quicklime dose, reaction time, and mixing speed on critical
water quality parameters such as pH, alkalinity, and calcium
carbonate hardness. By identifying the optimal combination of these
factors, the treatment process aimed to efficiently soften water while
minimizing resource usage and environmental impacts. After
systematic experimentation and data analysis, the optimal
conditions were determined to be a quicklime dose of 221.04 mg/L,
reaction time of 36 minutes, and mixing speed of 43 rpm. These
conditions effectively improved water quality by raising the pH to
6.7, reducing alkalinity to 447.3 mg/L, and decreasing calcium
carbonate hardness to 157.2 mg/L. The study highlights the
importance of balancing these parameters to efficiently soften water
while minimizing chemical and energy consumption, promoting an
environmentally conscious approach