Comparative assessment of free, immobilized, and nanoconjugate form of fungal biomass for biosorption of heavy metal
- Author Richa Sen
- Co-Author Shweta N., Anshu Deep Khalkho
- DOI https://ww
- Country : India
- Subject : Biotechnology
Keywords : Biomass, Biosorption, Fungi, heavy metal, Immobilized, Nanoconjugate
Abstract
Heavy metal contamination poses a major environmental threat due to the toxic and persistent nature of metals such as chromium (Cr), lead (Pb), aluminum (Al), and mercury (Hg). The present study aimed to evaluate the biosorption efficiency of three fungal isolates (RF1, RF7 and RF16) obtained from contaminated sites, and to compare their metal removal potential in free, immobilized, and nanoconjugate forms. Three isolates (RF1, RF7, and RF16) showing promising results were further processed for immobilization in calcium alginate beads and for ZnO nanoparticle conjugation. Biosorption experiments were conducted using metal solutions (80 ppm) at pH 5.0 and 25 ± 2 °C, and residual metal concentrations were quantified by UV–Visible spectrophotometry. Statistical analysis (t-test, p < 0.05) confirmed significant differences among fungal forms. Results revealed that immobilized and nanoconjugate forms showed markedly higher removal efficiencies compared to free forms. Immobilized fungi exhibited the best biosorption for Cr, Pb, and Al (up to ~70%), while nanoconjugate forms were most effective for Hg removal (~22%). Microscopic identification confirmed the isolates as Aspergillus flavus (RF1), Penicillium sp. (RF7), and Talaromyces sp. (RF16). Overall, the study highlights that immobilization and nanoconjugation enhance fungal biosorption potential, making these modified biomasses promising candidates for eco-friendly heavy metal remediation.
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