Phytoremediation potential of Elodea canadensis for reduction of chromium – optimization using response surface methodology

• Published in: Desalination and water treatment 2023-05, Vol.293, p.192-199
• Main Authors: Sankaranarayanan, Vaishnavi, Velusamy, Sangeetha, Sankaran, Pranav, Kandasamy, Kannan
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Bioaccumulation; Chromium; Elodea canadensis; Phytoremediation; Total dissolved solids; Translocation
• ISSN: 1944-3986; 1944-3986
• DOI: 10.5004/dwt.2023.29514

Chromium is a toxic heavy metal which possesses carcinogenic threats to all living organisms. This heavy metal is found to be present in tannery wastewater. The reduction of chromium content in wastewater is evaluated using phytoremediation of Elodea canadensis. The experiments were carried out with variables namely number of days, number of plants/area, hydraulic retention time and concentration of chromium. Bioaccumulation and translocation factors were taken as measures for phytoremediation. The bioaccumulation factor of 3.89 and translocation factor of 2.8 were achieved. Both the factors indicate the ability of the macrophytes to act as phytoaccumulator. These results also pinpoint the mobilization of chromium from soil to roots and roots to shoot. The chromium content of the sample was reduced to 65% and total dissolved solids reduced up to 48%. The cost required for the treatment is very less as it doesn’t require addition of chemicals and it works with zero energy consumption. Also, E. canadensis is easily grown and has aesthetic value. The treated water is free of contaminants and hence it is suitable for reuse in industries. Hence, the phytoremediation using E. canadensis is a sustainable strategy for detoxification and treatment of industrial wastewater.