Defluoridation refers to the removal or reduction of fluoride ions from water to bring the concentration within safe, recommended levels. This is necessary because while a small amount of fluoride is beneficial for dental health, consuming water with high fluoride levels can lead to a condition called fluorosis. Fluorosis is a health problem that can manifest in various forms, ranging from mild dental discoloration to severe skeletal deformities. Prolonged exposure to high fluoride levels, typically above 1.5 mg/L, can cause these adverse effects. defluoridation is a vital water treatment process that addresses a significant public health challenge, especially in regions with naturally high fluoride levels in groundwater. By reducing fluoride to safe levels, it helps prevent the detrimental effects of fluorosis and promotes overall community health and well-being.

Various techniques are employed for defluoridation, such as adsorption, ion exchange, precipitation, and membrane filtration. The choice of method depends on factors like the initial fluoride concentration, water quality, flow rate, and cost-effectiveness. Adsorption is one of the most commonly used techniques for removing excess fluoride from water. It involves passing the water through a material, such as activated alumina, bone char, or certain clays that have a high affinity for fluoride ions, allowing them to be adsorbed and removed from the water.