Lead remediation is promoted by phosphate-solubilizing fungi and apatite via the enhanced production of organic acid

Lead (Pb) is one of the most common heavy metal pollutants in the environment, which can indirectly or directly threaten human health. Lead immobilization by apatite can reduce the effectiveness of Pb cations via the formation of pyromorphite (Pyro). However, the formation of Pyro is always depending on the release of phosphorus (P) from apatite. Phosphate-solubilizing fungi (PSF) can secrete large amounts of organic acid to promote the release of P from apatite. Although the combination of PSF and apatite has shown a huge potential in Pb remediation, this pathway needs to be more attention, especially for organic acid secretion by PSF. This research mainly reviews the possible pathway to strengthen Pb immobilization by PSF and apatite. Meanwhile, the limitation of this approach is also reviewed, with the aim of a better stabilizing effect of Pb in the environment and promoting the development of these remediation technologies.

Automated summary

Lead (Pb) is a common heavy metal pollutant that poses a direct or indirect threat to human health. Apatite can immobilize Pb by forming pyromorphite (Pyro), but its effectiveness depends on the release of phosphorus (P). Phosphate-solubilizing fungi (PSF) can secrete organic acid to enhance P release from apatite. This research reviews the potential pathway of strengthening Pb immobilization by PSF and apatite, while considering the limitations and promoting the development of these remediation technologies.