Mathematical Modeling of Microbial Bioremediation

Abstract

Biosorption is a method that holds great promise for environmental bioremediation. However, the process mechanism is not yet fully comprehended as it relies heavily on the characteristics of the biosorbent, properties of the pollutants, and operational conditions. The knowledge and understanding of sorption kinetics and mechanisms are critical for the design and scaling up of biosorption. Applying the proper models and methods in the evaluation of heavy metals biosorption can elucidate mechanisms, analyze experimental data, predict outcomes, and optimize processes. After a brief analysis of the literature in the field of biosorption, it has been found that the most valuable models provide information about process kinetics, maximum biosorption capacity and thermodynamics. Additionally, the preferred methods for studying the interactive effects of process variables and creating a precise mathematical model that describes the process accurately are highly sought after. Thus, the main purpose of the chapter consists in exposing the available mathematical models and methods that can be applied for the evaluation of all factors that could affect the biosorption of heavy metals. The isotherms, kinetic and thermodynamic models, as well as the statistical tools suitable for evaluating biosorption were presented, with a special emphasis on their application, advantages, as well as disadvantages.