Color and COD Removal From ECF Effluent by Airlift Reactor With Immobilized <i>Lentinus edodes</i>

ABSTRACT This study evaluated the treatment of elemental chlorine‐free (ECF) bleaching effluent using Lentinus edodes mycelium immobilized on polymeric supports in a continuous airlift bioreactor. A response surface methodology (RSM) approach based on a central composite design (CCD) was applied to optimize process parameters, enhancing color and chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal. Fungal treatment resulted in the degradation of phenolic compounds, and the system maintained stable performance during continuous operation. The results highlight the biotechnological potential of immobilized fungi for sustainable treatment of industrial effluents in the pulp‐and‐paper sector.