Applications of Microbial bioflocculants for Environmental remediation: An Overview

Abstract

The application of bioflocculants has recently become a promising solution for the treatment of water and wastewater as well as removal of pollutants from environment. Water pollution is the most challenging environmental issue in the developing countries to determine the quality of life. The wastewater from different sources contains suspended solids, organic and inorganic particles, dissolved solids, heavy metals, dyes and other impurities which are harmful to the environment causing major health hazards in human and animals. The use of bioflocculants is advantageous for the control of environmental pollution as they are non- toxic and biodegradable in nature. Moreover, they do not create any secondary pollution. Chemical flocculants being a source of carcinogens can be replaced by bioflocculants which needs to be produced on a large scale. However, commercially viable bioflocculants are yet to be produced and marketed widely. This review intends to present the updated information on microbial bioflocculants and their applications for remediation of pollutants from wastewater. It may bring up the significant issues which can be attempted by future researchers for a better understanding to develop commercially viable, safe, eco-friendly and cost effective bioflocculants using new biotechnological techniques.