Ion exchange in nickel biosorption by seaweed materials

• Published in: Biotechnology progress Vol. 13; no. 4; pp. 424 - 428
• Main Authors: Williams, C.J. (University of Sheffield, UK.), Edyvean, R.G.J
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: USA American Chemical Society 1997; American Institute of Chemical Engineers
• Subjects: Biological and medical sciences; Biological treatment of waters; Biotechnology; ECHANGE D'ION; Ecklonia maxima; Environment and pollution; Fundamental and applied biological sciences. Psychology; Industrial applications and implications. Economical aspects; INTERCAMBIO IONICO; ION EXCHANGE; Marine; NICKEL; NIQUEL; PHAEOPHYCEAE; Phaeophyta; SORCION; SORPTION; Adsorption; Algae; Sequestering power; Nickel; Biomass; Biological treatment; Ion exchange; Waste water purification; Release; Thallophyta; Calcium Cations; Heavy metal
• ISSN: 8756-7938; 1520-6033
• DOI: 10.1021/bp970037w

This study focuses upon the nature of the biosorption of nickel by a brown seaweed Ecklonia maxima and two seaweed‐derived materials, dealginated seaweed waste and alginate fiber. An ion exchange relationship in the sequestration of nickel ions and the concomitant release of calcium ions has been identified. A millimolar equivalent relationship between nickel uptake and calcium release has been elucidated. Alginate fiber was found to adsorb nickel ions faster than either dealginate or E. maxima. This study is significant in that it sheds some more light on the chemical interactions that occur in biosorption processes. Full understanding of the mechanisms of biosorption and associated chemical interactions will allow the development of full‐scale wastewater treatment systems.