آزاده میروکیلی

This study investigated the optimization of the heavy metal removal from synthetic wastewater by Chlorella vulgaris and Sargassum angustifolium by comparative bioaccumulation and biosorption. The primary metals to be studied were iron (Fe2+), manganese (Mn2+), and zinc (Zn2+). Experimental design, based on the employment of the Box-Behnken response surface methodology, involved various factors such as the dose of algal biomass, metal concentration, and contact time to obtain optimal efficiencies in the metal removal. The results indicate that the removal efficiency by C. vulgaris is greater than S. angustifolium in all the circumstances, and the maximal efficiencies in the Fe2+, Mn2+, and Zn2+ removal are 83.59 %, 74.60 %, and 78.98 %, respectively. Due to its high surface area, cell structure, and metabolic activity, C. vulgaris often exhibits high biosorption rates for heavy metals. The results suggested the Mn2+ and Zn2+ adsorption to be greater through the biosorption mechanism and Fe2+ through bioaccumulation. The adsorbent characterization by FTIR and SEM also exhibited considerable structure alteration after metal adsorption, indicating the functional group involvement in the metal uptake. The current research highlights the potential of C. vulgaris as a sustainable and cost-effective solution for treating wastewater. Additionally, the treated water can be used to cultivate algal biomass, thereby promoting a circular economy. Future research could involve the integration of the same in biofuel generation to increase the efficiency in wastewater handling and bioenergy generation.