Comparative Analysis of Algerian Juniperus oxycedrus Tar from Two-Regions: Physico-chemical Characterization and Antibacterial Performance in Wastewater Treatment

In this study, the comparative study characterizes the region-specific properties of Juniperus oxycedrus tar (Cade oil or Gatran) from two Algerian provenances (Djelfa and M'sila), evaluating both physico-chemical parameters and antimicrobial potential. Laboratory analyses identified substantial provenance-based differentiation, particularly in rheological behaviour, where M'sila-sourced tar displayed 3.7-fold greater dynamic viscosity (1544 mPa·s) than Djelfa samples (420 mPa·s) under the standardized conditions (31.5 ± 0.4 ºC). Both variants exhibited complete bactericidal activity (100% elimination) against wastewater indicator organisms (total coliforms, fecal coliforms and fecal streptococci) at operational concentrations of 0.1 mL/L with 30 min contact time. The observed dissociation between antimicrobial efficacy (which showed no geographic variation) and physico-chemical profiles suggests that while biological activity remains consistent, material properties may dictate specific industrial applications. These results suggests for the potential integration of J. oxycedrus tar as a sustainable disinfectant in water treatment systems, pending further investigation into its environmental persistence and comparative cost-effectiveness relative to the conventional biocides.