Biosorption of emerging organics compouns using filamentous spirogyra

Abstract

This study aims to evaluate the capacity of the green alga Spirogyra to adsorb emerging pharmaceutical pollutants for water purification purposes. Paracetamol and diclofenac were selected as model contaminants. In addition, the biological activity of the alga was investigated. The results showed antibacterial effects against certain strains, as well as antifungal activity against the pathogenic yeast Candida albicans. The structural and surface characteristics of the alga were analyzed using AFM and FTIR techniques. Adsorption efficiency was assessed by exposing the alga to each pollutant separately, while varying several parameters: pH, temperature, pollutant concentration, contact time, and particle size of the dried algae powder. Each of these factors had a noticeable effect on the adsorption capacity. Finally, HPLC analysis was used to quantify the remaining amount of pollutant after treatment, thus evaluating the effectiveness of the biosorption process.