Aug 15, 2006 :: An algae to clean up heavy metals

Scientists at the Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute [CMFRI] have discovered that the algae Sargassum wightii, can not only remove heavy metals like cadmium and lead but also leads to their recovery. It is more effective than the currently used activated carbon and zeolites.

Scientists packed a perforated box with powdered algae and placed it in contaminated effluents. In 30 minutes, 80% of cadmium and 70% of lead were absorbed by mannuronic and guluronic acids produced by the algae. After that, placing the soaked algae in an alkaline solution recovered the metals. CMFRI is calling it a Bio-battery.  News report