Process optimization of batch biosorption of lead using Lactobacillius bulgaricus in an aqueous phase system using...

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Biotechnology
• Chemical Engineering

Background:

• Lead contamination poses significant environmental and health risks.
• Biosorption offers a promising method for heavy metal removal from wastewater.
• Lactobacillius bulgaricus biomass is explored as a potential biosorbent for lead ions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of pH, biomass weight, and initial lead ion concentration on lead adsorption capacity.
• To model and optimize the lead biosorption process using Lactobacillius bulgaricus.
• To determine the key operating variables influencing lead removal efficiency.

Main Methods:

• Response surface methodology (RSM) with a central composite rotatable design was employed.
• Dried cells of Lactobacillius bulgaricus were used as the biosorbent material.
• Quadratic polynomial equations were developed to predict lead ion removal percentage.

Main Results:

• pH and biomass weight were identified as critical factors affecting lead ion removal.
• Optimal biosorption occurred at pH 6.78, biomass concentration of 6.58 g/l, and initial lead concentration of 36.22 ppm.
• Under optimal conditions, 86.21% lead ion removal was achieved, with no significant biosorption at pH < 2 or in alkaline conditions.

Conclusions:

• Response surface methodology (RSM) is effective for modeling and optimizing biosorption processes.
• Lactobacillius bulgaricus demonstrates potential for efficient lead ion removal from aqueous solutions.
• Optimized conditions are crucial for maximizing heavy metal biosorption efficiency.