Comparative evaluation of silver oxide nanoparticles and spirulina platensis for the remediation of real industrial wastewater

This study investigates the comparative efficiency of silver oxide (Ag 2 O) nanoparticles and the microalga Spirulina platensis in the remediation of real industrial wastewater.Ag 2 O nanoparticles were synthesized via chemical precipitation and characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy FTIR, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and atomic force microscopy (AFM).SEM analysis revealed that the nanoparticles had a mean particle size of approximately 47 nm, while AFM confirmed the presence of moderately aggregated structures.Spirulina platensis was identified through microscopic examination and used as a biological treatment agent.The treatment performance of both materials was assessed through key physicochemical parameters such as total dissolved solids (TDS), turbidity, chemical oxygen demand (COD), nitrate, phosphate, and heavy metals.Ag 2 0 nanoparticles achieved high removal efficiencies, including 92% for lead (Pb), 88% for turbidity, and 85% for COD.In comparison, Spirulina platensis demonstrated effective nutrient reduction, with 75% phosphate and 70% nitrate removal.Although both treatments were effective, AgO nanoparticles showed superior performance in eliminating heavy metals and persistent chemical contaminants, while Spirulina excelled in nutrient reduction.These findings suggest the potential of integrating nanotechnology and phycoremediation for sustainable wastewater treatment.