Exploring the Use of Corn Stover Lignin Followed by Microbial Combustion as a Means to Recover Lead and Cadmium from Water
Abstract
The utilization of lignin as a biorenewable approach to metal adsorption and recovery via microbial combustion is investigated in this work. Current methods to remove toxic metals include membrane filtration and activated carbon adsorption, but these methods often rely on non-renewable processes. Lignin was isolated from corn stover via acid hydrolysis. Metal solutions were prepared from lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd) chloride salts to represent typical contamination levels. The initial and final concentrations of the samples were analyzed via atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS). Microbial combustion was performed using the white-rot fungus Pleurotus ostreatus, which was selected for its lignin-degrading capabilities. It was shown that lignin is capable of adsorbing both Pb and Cd. Biomass accumulation of P. ostreatus was also observed in the presence of Pb and Cd. Further work will study optimization of both lignin adsorption and microbial combustion of spent lignin.
Degree
M.S.A.B.E.
Advisors
Engelberth, Purdue University.
Subject Area
Agricultural engineering|Environmental engineering
Off-Campus Purdue Users:
To access this dissertation, please log in to our
proxy server.