Bioreagents - their use in the removal of heavy metals from liquid streams by biosorptionl bioflotation

The objective of this work is to present a review concerning the use of biomass as bioreagents in the removal of heavy metals while treating liquid effluents. The advantages of using these biosorbents instead of conventional sorbents lie on the cost benefit relations inherent in this recent technology. Algae, bacteria, fungi and biological materials (coconut shells, wood, peat etc.) have shown avidity for metal ion uptaking in aqueous environments and their ubiquity decreases the overall treatment system cost. Research and patent examples are discussed, showing the success of this emergent technology.