Accumulation of cobalt, zinc and manganese by the estuarine green microalga Chlorella salina immobilized in alginate microbeads

This paper describes cobalt, zinc, and manganese accumulation by Chlorella salina immobilized in calcium glainate microbeads, investigated by use of the radioisotopes 60 Co, 54 Mn, and 65 Zn. A rapid biosorption of the metals to C. salina cell walls and the alginate matrix,, which was independent of light, temperature, or the metabolic inhibitor CCCP, was followed by a slower energy-dependent phase of uptake. Under similar conditions, immobilized cells accumulated greater amounts of Co, Zn, or Mn than free cells due to an increased active phase of uptake (...)