Biosorption of Lead and Chromium by Fungi

Living organisms interact continuously with their environments, such as water, soil, and air, for

their survival, and any alteration in these environments would drastically affect their

survival, growth, and reproduction. In the present day, the environment is turning more

unpleasant for the survival of the living organisms as it is getting mixed with the various

undesirable components leading to serious problems. The natural resources are being

completely exploited by mankind for his wellbeing and, in turn, releasing all

undesirable products into the environment leading to pollution.

After the industrial revolution, many industries have set up throughout the world in order to meet

the demands of ever-growing population. Freshwater is one of the important raw materials in modern

industries, where it is getting mixed with various other raw materials and intermediate products

before and after the processes. Generally, this water is regarded as waste after the complete

process and even considered as one of the "essential byproduct" of any industry. The

surface water is often getting mixed with the untreated wastewater released from many industries,

leading to serious problems to the environment and living organisms.

The wastewater or industrial effluent is highly concentrated with organic, inorganic

pollutants along with solid, insoluble particles. Among all these pollutants, the

threats posed by the inorganic pollutants on the environment and living organisms are of much

concern. The compound that lacks carbon-hydrogen bonds are termed as inorganic compounds.

Inorganic compounds include heavy metals and metalloids, which are reported to pose a threat to

living organisms. Metals with higher density and toxic at lower concentrations are called as heavy

metals. Even a few lighter metals are also included in the list of heavy

metals with exception such as gold, which is not toxic.