Desalination of Groundwater to Preserve Animal Health using a Natural Mineral Sorbent from Western Kazakhstan

Pollution of groundwater by various chemical and biological substances poses serious challenges to ecosystems, human health, and agricultural production. The purpose of the study was to develop technologies for the purification and desalination of groundwater using a natural siliceous sorbent based on diatomite to ensure the safety of water for watering farm animals. To achieve this goal, a comprehensive analysis of the diatomite was carried out using lithological and petrographic studies, scanning electron microscopy, differential thermal analysis, X-ray fluorescence analysis, and infrared spectroscopy. As a result of the study, it was found that diatomite contains various components, including aluminium, iron, calcium oxides, and other minerals. Analysis of the chemical composition of diatomite after heat treatment showed that the silicon content is approximately 90%, which guarantees high adsorption activity of the material. A study with the addition of activated carbon demonstrated an improvement in the adsorption properties of diatomite, increasing the degree of groundwater purification by 35-37%. Differential thermal analysis revealed that modification of the material at 450°C preserves its structural and functional characteristics, which is critically important for effective water purification. X-ray fluorescence analysis confirmed the presence of an optimal ratio of elements in the complex sorbent, which ensures high efficiency of the purification process. This makes it a suitable material not only for technical needs, but also for watering animals, ensuring the preservation of their health. Due to its low cost, the sorbent can be used for water purification in agriculture and fish farming, industrial water treatment, energy, housing and utilities, food and chemical industries, and in the private sector.