Functionalized adsorbent for simultaneous removal of heavy metal ions and ciprofloxacin

Ciprofloxacin (CIP) is a broad-spectrum antibiotic, frequently detected in different environmental compartments, which may contribute to antibiotic resistance occurrence. Another group of the contaminants, widely present in water and soils is heavy metal ions (HMI), like mercury, lead or cadmium. They are known to have toxic or poisonous effect on living organisms, including humans, even at low concentration. Moreover, CIP tends to form stable complexes with metal ions, including HMI. This may alter antibiotic’s antimicrobial and physicochemical properties. The objective of this project is to use the later feature to remove CIP and HMI from water. The aim is to create cost-effective adsorbent, so that CIP and heavy metals are adsorbed onto its surface. The adsorption of metal ions, including HMI would occur in the beginning which is most likely to enhance CIP adsorption. Hence, the decrease of their concentration in aquatic media is expected.

Faculty Supervisor:

Patrick Drogui;Satinder Kaur Brar

Student:

Partner:

Norwegian University of Life Sciences

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

Education

University:

Université du Québec : Institut national de la recherche scientifique

Program: