A Study of Some Physical and Chemical Properties of Locally Produced Desalination Plant Water in Sabratha
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.65405/.11.ملحق%2041.2225Keywords:
Desalinated water, Sabratha, pH, Northwestern Libya, Nitrate, RemineralizationAbstract
This study aimed to evaluate the quality of drinking water produced from desalination plants relying on groundwater in the city of Sabratha, northwestern Libya. A number of physical and chemical indicators were analyzed, including total dissolved solids (TDS), electrical conductivity (EC), pH, as well as major ions such as sodium (Na⁺), potassium (K⁺), nitrate (NO₃⁻), and nitrite (NO₂⁻). Fifteen water samples were collected from desalination units located in mosque facilities, and laboratory analyses were performed according to standard procedures.
The results showed that all samples fell within the permissible limits of Libyan and World Health Organization (WHO) standards; however, they exhibited a marked decrease in mineral content. TDS values were below the ideal level in 100% of the samples, with some samples (R5, R7, R11, R12, R14) resembling distilled water. pH values were slightly below the minimum allowable limit in 60% of the samples, reflecting poor water buffering capacity due to reverse osmosis treatment without remineralization, which may pose health risks. Nitrate concentrations ranged from 0.2 to 4.5 ppm, which are safe for human consumption.
The study recommends adding a remineralization stage and pH adjustment, as well as enhancing regular monitoring to ensure mineral balance and health safety of the water.
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