Biological substrates for metal preconcentration and speciation

This article summarizes the state of the art of metal preconcentration and speciation using biological organisms such as algae, plant-derived materials, bacteria, yeast, fungi and erythrocytes. Although biosorption has been the subject of increasing research for a variety of reasons, including its potential application in the recovery of metals from manufacturing processes, the treatment of contaminated water and the recovery of precious metals in mining operations, only recently has it been exploited for analytical measurement. Basic techniques and principles are discussed and recent developments reviewed. Special attention is given to immobilization procedures and some biosorption mechanisms are considered.