Header Logo
World Journal of
Engineering

Search

ARCHIVES
VOL. 2, ISSUE 1 (2026)
Phytoremediation efficacy of aquatic macrophytes for heavy metal removal from industrial wastewater
Authors
Dr. Kwesi Boateng
Abstract

Background: The discharge of heavy metal-laden industrial wastewater into freshwater ecosystems poses severe toxicological risks to human and ecological health. Conventional treatment methods are often cost-prohibitive and generate secondary sludge.

Objective: This study evaluates the phytoremediation potential of two aquatic macrophytes, Eichhornia crassipes and Pistia stratiotes, for the removal of Cadmium (Cd) and Lead (Pb) from simulated industrial wastewater.

Method: This study uses a simulated dataset created for academic training purposes. A 15-day hydroponic experiment was simulated under controlled conditions. Initial heavy metal concentrations were set at 10 mg/L for Cd and 50 mg/L for Pb. Removal efficiency and bioaccumulation factors (BAF) were calculated.

Key Results: Eichhornia crassipes demonstrated superior removal efficiency, removing 92% of Cd and 88% of Pb within 15 days, compared to 85% (Cd) and 78% (Pb) for Pistia stratiotes. The BAF values indicated that both species hyperaccumulated Pb, with translocation primarily occurring in the root tissues.

Conclusion: Aquatic macrophytes, particularly Eichhornia crassipes, offer a highly efficient, low-cost, and sustainable alternative for the phytoextraction of heavy metals from industrial effluents.
Download
Pages:17-19
How to cite this article:
Dr. Kwesi Boateng "Phytoremediation efficacy of aquatic macrophytes for heavy metal removal from industrial wastewater". World Journal of Engineering, Vol 2, Issue 1, 2026, Pages 17-19
Download Author Certificate

Please enter the email address corresponding to this article submission to download your certificate.