Infrared spectroscopy with multivariate analysis to interrogate the interaction of whole cells and secreted soluble exopolimeric substances of Pseudomonas veronii 2E with Cd(II), Cu(II) and Zn(II).

Extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) are bacterial products associated to cell wall or secreted to the liquid media that form the framework of microbial mats. These EPS contain functional groups as carboxyl, amino, hydroxyl, phosphate and sulfhydryl, able to interact with cations. Thus, EPS may be considered natural detoxifying compounds of metal polluted waters and wastewaters.

Cadmium, zinc and copper biosorption mediated by Pseudomonas veronii 2E.

Adsorption properties of bacterial biomass were tested for Cd removal from liquid effluents. Experimental conditions (pH, time, cellular mass, volume, metal concentration) were studied to develop an efficient biosorption process with free or immobilised cells of Pseudomonas veronii 2E. Surface fixation was chosen to immobilise cells on inert surfaces including teflon membranes, silicone rubber and polyurethane foam.