Abstract
Since trace metals rarely appear singly in industrial effluents, it is a major challenge to address combined effects of such toxicants on biological units of wastewater treatment plants. The aim of this study was interaction assessment of Cd, Cr, Pb, Ni, and Hg in their effects on activated sludge bacteria using analytical methods. Two mathematical models were used to determine the effect of binary mixtures of Hg, Cd, Cr, Pb, and Ni on activated sludge bacteria using a dehydrogenase enzyme assay. Calculated EC50 values were compared to experimentally observed values of mixtures. Interactive effects were counted to be antagonistic for Hg and Cd, Cd and Pb, Cd and Ni, and Cr and Pb, synergistic for Cd and Cr and Hg and Cr, and additive for other binary mixtures. Maximum toxicity was related to Hg and Cr, Cd and Cr, and Hg and Cd. Physicochemical monitoring of single metals may underestimate hazards arising from these pollutants in environmental samples. Therefore, any possible interaction between metals in such environments should be considered when establishing environmental safety standards.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
