Adsorbents for Cr(VI) Uptake from Contaminated Water: Part II Fungal Biomass

Abstract

This study investigates the potential of Aspergillus niger fungal biomass, cultivated on three different media (Sabouraud Broth, Glucose-Potato Broth, and Malt Broth), for the biosorption of hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) from aqueous solutions. A series of batch experiments was conducted to evaluate the influence of operational parameters such as contact time, shaking speed, pH, biomass dosage, and initial Cr(VI) concentration. Optimal removal was observed at pH 2.5, shaking speed of 150 rpm, and a contact time of 60 minutes. Among the tested media, the biomass derived from Malt Broth (MB) exhibited the highest Cr(VI) adsorption capacity and removal efficiency. Adsorption isotherms were modeled using Langmuir and Freundlich equations. The Langmuir model provided a better fit for the experimental data, indicating monolayer adsorption. Results demonstrate that non-living fungal biomass can serve as a low-cost, effective, and sustainable biosorbent for chromium-contaminated water treatment.