Ecology, Environment and Conservation Paper

CADMIUM AND COPPER REMOVAL USING MICROALGAE CHAETOCEROS CALCITRANS FOR BIOREMEDIATION POTENTIAL TEST

Dwi Candra Pratiwi, Niken Pratiwi, Defri Yona, Respati Dwi Sasmita

Abstract

Cd and Cu are often found as a result of anthropogenic activities and can be toxic if the levels are excessive. All the pollutant materials can proceed naturally. However, with maximizing the existence of microalgae it can make faster the cycle of heavy metals pollution. Chaetoceros calcitrans is one of the microalgae that is tested as a bioremediation agent. The purpose of this research is to understand the ability of the microalgae to absorb heavy metals in a controlled environment. In this study, the microalga of Chaetoceros calcitrans tested using Cd and Cu with concentrations of each control, 0.7, 1.3, and 1.9 ppm for 96 hours. Microalgae density measurements are carried out every 12 hours to monitor the density of microalgae during exposure. The final of heavy metals concentration on media and microalgae was carried using AAS. In addition, the calculation of BCF (Bioconcentration Factors) was also determined to measure the potential absorption of Chaetoceros calcitrans to accumulate heavy metals.