Naturally occurring bacteria found in drinking water distribution systems produce manganese oxide nanoparticles (MnOxNPs) from manganese found in water. MnOxNPs are highly reactive and can be used to degrade recalcitrant organic pollutants. Naturally occurring bacteria were collected from biofilms in a Rhode Island drinking water distribution network that has a high level of manganese. MnOxNP producing bacteria were isolated via streak plating on Mn containing agar media. Isolated bacteria were then grown in batch cultures to determine the kinetic growth parameters. The removal rate of Mn and production of MnOxNPs can be determined as a function of bacterial growth using kinetic growth parameters. The growth parameters were then applied to a continuous culture. The biologically synthesized MnOxNPs were separated from the culture media and characterized using X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy and Scanning Electron Microscopy in order to determine morphological and physicochemical properties. Application of MnOxNP producing bacteria in water treatment facilities could improve Mn removal from drinking water and produce a material that can be used to remediate recalcitrant organic pollutants.

Biologically synthesized manganese oxide nanomaterials potential application to water treatment systems

ACS Spring Meeting 2021

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.