Continuous fixed-bed biosorption process: A review

Abstract

Biosorption is one of the solute enrichment techniques driven by the concentration difference of biosorbate molecules among the bulk liquid phase and solid biosorbent. The presence of the surface functional groups of the biosorbents facilitates the formation of physical/chemical interactions with the biosorbates at the solid-liquid interface. Biosorption is proved as an alternative, effective and sustainable approach to traditional water treatment technologies. Abundance, biodegradable, versatile surface functionalities, and ease of tailor-made modifications of biosorbents have fascinated many researchers to exploit their potential in the removal of a wide range of pollutants in batch/continuous mode of operation. However, the reports on continuous biosorption are significantly lesser and hence, the present review is focused only on the fixed-bed biosorption and comprehensively discussed the vital shortcomings of the current biosorption research. Conclusively, this review recommends potential research hotspots for the scientific community to address the prevailing research gaps.

Keywords

• Biosorption
• Biosorbents
• Continuous fixed-bed biosorption
• Wastewater treatment