Assessment of Microbial Consortia for Biogenic Mineralization Potential of Lead (Pb) using Microbiologically Induced Calcite Precipitation and Nitrate Reduction
Groundwater contamination by lead and nitrate exceeding the permissible limits of the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) of 10 ppb lead and 45 to 50 ppm nitrate poses a severe health risk of systemic toxicity in humans and animals. Microbial nitrate reduction coupled with microbiologically induced calcite precipitation (MICP) proved to be a novel…
Groundwater in certain regions exceeds safe levels for lead and nitrate set by the World Health Organization and Indian standards, leading to potential health risks. Microbial nitrate reduction paired with microbiologically induced calcite precipitation (MICP) offers a promising alternative to convert lead nitrate into harmless biominerals.
Researchers conducted a statistical optimization of process parameters to enhance this bioremediation approach. Using scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray analysis, and X-ray diffraction, they confirmed the co-precipitation of lead carbonate with calcium carbonate. A two-level factorial design identified key variables affecting nitrate reduction and biomineral production.
The optimal conditions of 600 ppm initial nitrate, 37°C temperature, pH 8, and carbon content of 5.5 g/L achieved a remarkable 90% nitrate reduction and maximum ammonia production. This study demonstrates the feasibility of utilizing nitrate-reducing bacterial consortia to address lead contamination in water systems on a large scale.
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