Biosorption of Reactive Orange 16 by Isolated Fungal Species

Abstract: Discharge of dyes from textile industries is known to have adverse effects on the environment. Biosorption of dyes is an innovative and alternative technology for removal of these pollutants. In this study 10 morphologically different fungal species were isolated from the effluent sample. Collected from textile industry in Vatva, Gujarat, India. The isolates were further screened for biosorption of reactive Orange 16. Isolates 1 and 8 with highest biosorption capacity were studied. Factors affecting the biosorption process: pH, dye concentration, biomass concentration, contact time, presence of salt, growth condition of fungi were studied. Isolated 1 and 8 were good biosorbents at initial dye concentration 100 mg L –1. Biosorption was found to be decreased with increase in pH from 2 – 5 and increased salt concentration. Isolate 1 achieved 71% biosorption in 3hr while Isolate 2 achieved 51% biosorption in 4 hr. Biosorption capacity of isolates was more in agitated from then static. Biosorption of dye RO16 was assayed spectrophotometrically at 494 nm.