Absorption and Adsorption of Heavy Metals by Microalgae

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapterpeer-review

102 Scopus citations

Abstract

Heavy metals are released into waterways due to various anthropogenic activities. Their treatment is of special importance, since heavy metals are nonbiodegradable and persist in the environment posing a threat to the biota due to their toxic nature. In this chapter, the current methods that have been used to remove and/or detoxify heavy metals in aquatic environments are reviewed with specific emphasis on microalgae. A literature survey indicates microalgae have developed a wide spectrum of absorption (extracellular) and adsorption (intracellular) mechanisms for coping with heavy metal toxicity. The potential of prokaryotic and eukaryotic microalgae living cells or their dead cell biomass in comparison to currently available physicochemical processes aimed at removing toxic heavy metals is discussed. Also addressed are the mandatory requirements to bring this heavy metal removal potential to an applicable, commercial stage.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationHandbook of Microalgal Culture
Subtitle of host publicationApplied Phycology and Biotechnology: Second Edition
Publisherwiley
Pages602-611
Number of pages10
ISBN (Electronic)9781118567166
ISBN (Print)9780470673898
DOIs
StatePublished - 1 Jan 2013

Keywords

  • absorption
  • adsorption
  • bioremediation
  • heavy metals
  • metal speciation
  • microalgae

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Engineering (all)
  • Agricultural and Biological Sciences (all)

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