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Project Code [2006-S-ET-13]
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Project title
Development of a modified seaweed biofiltration system for the control of metals and other pollutants in an industry waste-stream
Primary Funding Agency
Environmental Protection Agency
Co-Funding Organisation(s)
n/a
Lead Organisation
Waterford Institute of Technology (WIT)
Lead Applicant
Eddy Fitzgerald
Project Abstract
Three different species of non-living seaweeds biomass (Fucus vesiculosus Polysiphonia lanosa and Ulva lactuca) and a seaweed waste product derived from Ascophyllum nodosum (referred to as WAP) were studied for the biosorption of single and combined heavy metals (Ni(II) Zn(II) Al(III) and Sb(III)). Very high biosorption rates were recorded for the removal of Ni(II) Zn(II) and Al(III) for WAP/agar blocks and Sb(III) for P. lanosa/agar blocks. An antagonistic effect was observed when Sb(III) was mixed with the other metals leading to a reduction in uptake. However most of Sb(III) was removed by dead biomass of P. lanosa/agar. Sorption isotherm studies as well as an investigation of the antagonistic effects of Sb(III) on the sorption of the other metals were also carried out. WAP/agar blocks were used to test a laboratory scale fixed bed sorption column. Both short and long term studies were investigated. COMSOL software was used to generate models to predict breakthrough curves and simulate biosorption performance
Grant Approved
�40,000.00
Research Hub
Natural Environment
Research Theme
Protecting our Water Resources
Initial Projected Completion Date
21/01/2008