Heavy Metals Biosorption
Diagram:
[Image of a diagram depicting heavy metals biosorption]
Process:
Heavy metals biosorption involves the removal of heavy metal ions from wastewater or other aqueous solutions using biological materials such as bacteria, fungi, or algae. The biosorbent material binds to the heavy metal ions through various mechanisms such as ion exchange, chelation, or electrostatic interactions.
Applications:
Biosorption is used for the treatment of wastewater contaminated with heavy metals, such as:
* Industrial wastewater
* Mining effluents
* Agricultural runoff
Advantages:
* Cost-effective
* Environmentally friendly
* High efficiency
* Can be tailored to specific heavy metals
Limitations:
* May require pre-treatment of wastewater
* Can be affected by pH and temperature
* May generate biomass waste