Optimization and Simulation of Process Parameters in Biosorption of Heavy Metals by Alcaligenes faecalis Strain UBI (MT107249) Isolated from Soil of Local Mining Area in North-West Nigeria

Abstract

ABSTRACT The use of biological molecules to control pollutants, especially heavy metals that pollute our atmosphere, is gaining traction. In this study, simulation and optimization of process parameters using one-factor-at-a-time and response surface methodology (RSM) were employed to assess conditions for heavy metal tolerant bacteria isolated from local mining area employed in biosorption of heavy metals. Morphological, biochemical, and molecular characteristics of the isolate was determined using standard procedures. The agar plate method was used to determine heavy metal tolerance of the bacterial isolate. The effect of factors affecting biosorption of heavy metals was assessed using one-factor-at-a-time and response surface methodology respectively. The Gram-negative Alcaligenes faecalis strain UBI isolated in this study was capable of tolerating 27.0ppm of Pb2+. Optimum temperature and pH recorded were 35°C and 5 respectively. Similarly, optimum metal concentration indicated 2.5ppm with 12 hours contact time and at 7% of Inocula size (v/v) respectively. Simulation by RSM showed that the model is significant (p = .0013). The statistical accuracy of the model was elaborated by the non-significant lack of fit. The R2 (0.98) value highlights a perfect model likewise the low value of the coefficient of variance (CV = 3.09%). This study supports the idea of using bacteria as a panacea to heavy metal pollution under-regulated process parameters.