Ability of Pycnoporus Sanguineus to Remove Copper Ions from Aqueous Solution

Abstract

The equilibrium sorption capacity of a macro-fungi, Pycnoporus sanguineus biomass was studied using a single-meta system comprising copper ions. The rate and extent for the removal of copper were subjected to environmental parameter! such as pH, biomasss loading, temperature, and contact time. Results showed that the uptake of copper increased as the ph increased. However, as the biomass loading increased, the amount of metal uptake decreased. Instead, temperature doe: not have a significant effect on the metal uptake, especially between 30 to 40°C. A maximum adsorption of copper ion; was also observed within 15 minutes of reaction time for the entire sample tested. Furthermore, pre-treatment with sodiurr bicarbonate and boiling water significantly improved the sorption capacity of copper by Pycnoporus sanguineus.

Key Words:

• Biosorption
• heavy metals
• copper uptake
• Pycnoporus sanguineus

Additional information

Notes on contributors

M. D. Mashitah

Joyce Laing works in the Department of Child and Family Psychiatry, Playfield House, Cupar, Fife, and is a Consultant Art Therapist to Psychiatric Hospitals and Prisons and Chairwoman of the Scottish Society of Art and Psychology.