Eco-Friendly Biosorption of Heavy Metals by Chlorella vulgaris: A Green Solution for Wastewater Remediation

This study highlighted the environmental and health threats posed by heavy metal pollution in wastewater and explored the use of Chlorella vulgaris as a sustainable biosorbent for metal removal. The dried algal biomass was found to contain moisture, carbohydrates, protein, fats, and ash in specific proportions. Key water quality parameters such as pH, conductivity, turbidity, total dissolved solids (TDS), and chloride levels were analyzed before and after treatment. The results showed that metal removal efficiency varied by type and conditions. The smallest mesh size (0.063µm) provided the highest iron removal (16.5–27.5%). Lead removal was highly effective, reaching 93.3% at 4mg/ L concentration. Nickel and zinc also showed significant reductions. Statistical analysis indicated strong adsorption affinities for copper and zinc, while iron and cobalt were less effectively adsorbed. A cluster analysis revealed distinct groupings based on adsorption behavior, with iron and copper showing similarities, while lead and cadmium formed a separate cluster with lower removal efficiency.Overall, the findings demonstrate the potential of C. vulgaris as a cost-effective biosorbent for heavy metal removal, supporting its application in sustainable water treatment and environmental remediation efforts.