Studies on Zero-cost algae based phytoremediation of dye and heavy metal from simulated wastewater

In the present study, filamentous algae, an emerging candidate for biofuel and other useful chemical production, has been investigated as a biological adsorbent for the removal of contaminants from synthetic wastewater. Operational parameters were optimized in batch phytoremediation experiments. The adsorption equilibrium isotherm models such as Langmuir, Freundlich, and Dubinin-Radushkevitch and kinetics models such as pseudo-1st and pseudo-2nd order in methylene blue decolorization and Cr(VI) removal were also investigated. The D-R isotherm theory provided the best fit. The pseudo-2nd order model accurately described the adsorption kinetic data. Maximum adsorption capacities were observed to 5.03 mg.g(-1) and 0.77 mg.g(-1) along with removal efficiencies were achieved to 91.3% and 91.4% for methylene blue and Cr(VI) remediation, respectively. Moreover, intra-particle diffusion kinetic theory was used to describe the mechanism. These outcomes are significant in the development of algae-based zero-cost pollutants removal technology in wastewater treatment.

Automated summary

In this study, filamentous algae were investigated as a biological adsorbent for removing contaminants from synthetic wastewater. Various isotherm and kinetics models were studied for methylene blue decolorization and Cr(VI) removal, with the Dubinin-Radushkevitch isotherm theory and pseudo-2nd order model providing the best fit. The maximum adsorption capacities and removal efficiencies for methylene blue and Cr(VI) were achieved, showcasing the potential of algae-based technology for zero-cost pollutants removal in wastewater treatment.