The investigation of Cu(II) removal by biocomposites synthesized with the immobilization of R. delemar and Candida microorganisms

Abstract

In this study, Cu(II) adsorption using the biocomposites prepared by the immobilization of chitosan polymer and Candida yeasts (Candida lipolytica, Candida membranaefaciens, Candida tropicalis, Candida utilis) and Rhizopusdelemar fungus as a microorganism on chitosan was examined. In the parameter ranges used, it was identified that the temperature was 25-55 degrees C, pH was 2-7, the concentration was 10-100 mg/L, the optimum pH value was 4.0, the temperature was 25 degrees C and the maximum capacity was 10.06 mg/g for the chitosan-Candida utilis biocomposite. The experimental equilibrium data were adjusted to the Langmuir isotherm model of chitosan and biocomposites and the kinetic data were adjusted to the pseudo-first-order kinetics model. It was determined that the adsorption process operating according to enthalpy, entropy, and Gibbs free energy exchange thermodynamic parameters was exothermic and voluntary. The FTIR, SEM analyses and characterization studies of the chitosan-Candida utilis biocomposite were carried out before and after adsorption. It is thought that with this study conducted, new chitosan-Candida biocomposites will become an alternative for the removal of heavy metals.