Exploitation of Ganoderma lucidum as a biosorbent for lead-contaminated water: FTIR characterization and adsorption modeling

Heavy metal contamination in water is a critical environmental issue, with lead posing a substantial threat to human health and ecosystems. Conventional remediation techniques are often inefficient and expensive, necessitating the development of alternative strategies. This study explored the potential of the macrofungus Ganoderma lucidum for the biosorption of lead (Pb) ions from aqueous solutions. The biosorption process was analyzed using Inductively Coupled Plasma Atomic Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-AES) for Pb (II) quantification and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) to identify the functional groups involved. The results demonstrated a high adsorption capacity of G. lucidum, achieving 91.64% removal efficiency at a lead concentration of 600 ppm, pH 4, a biomass dosage of 5 g, and a 24-hour contact time. Additionally, Langmuir isotherm modeling was applied to better understand the biosorption mechanisms. These findings highlight the potential of G. lucidum as an eco-friendly and sustainable solution for lead removal in water treatment.