Biosorption Processes for Heavy Metal Removal in Aqueous Media

Abstract

Biosorption technique is a growing alternative to existent conventional treatment techniques used in heavy metal remediation and associated with the production of toxic sludge. This chapter demonstrated the use of the technique and its processes, the biosorbents used, and the sorbates that they target. Evidently, many plant by-products, bacteria, fungi, and algae species are used in the process in their living or dead forms to take up a variety of heavy metals. The process is regulated by factors such as biosorbent dosage, temperature, pH, and initial metal concentration. There is need to advance research on the technique to optimize its metal removal efficacy.