CADMIUM BIOSORPTION OF NOVEL BACTERIAL STRAINS IN WASTE WATER

Biosorption is a promising technology, removing toxic heavy metals from industrial waste. The aim of the present study was to screen bacterial strains, isolated from untreated industrial wastewater for their cadmium (Cd) biosorption potential. We screened strains of bacteria with the ability to grow in a medium containing 14 Mm Cd (II). Strain identification was done via morphological (Gram reaction, motility) and biochemical characterizations as well as via the 16S rRNA sequence and ultimately identified and named as Bacterium Cd. Optimal growth conditions of the bacterium were found at pH 8, 25 degrees C, and ventilation charged with 20 ml medium in 100 ml Erlenmeyer flasks. The bacterium can also grow in media with Zn and Mn. Optimal conditions for Cd removal were determined as pH 9 and a temperature of 30 degrees C for an equilibrium time of 3h. This led to maximal Cd biosorption from solution with low initial Cd ion concentration (77.19%). A bacterial strain isolated from waste water of a local factory was tested for potential biosorption of cadmium (Cd). This study validates that bacterium Cd can be used as an inexpensive, highly efficient, and reliable biosorption bio-agent for the efficient removal of Cd from an aqueous environment.