Adsorption of lead by Microalgae Chaetoceros Sp. and Chlorella Sp. from Aqueous Solution

Introduction: Using bio-sorbents is regarded as one of the effective methods to remove heavy metals. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate Pbadsorption from contaminated water by Chaetoceros sp. and Chlorella sp. algae. Materials &Methods: This experimental study was conducted in a batch reactor. The amount of Pbadsorption by Chaetoceros sp. and Chlorella sp. algae was studied under such conditions as different adsorbent dosages (0.2, 0.5, 1.5 and 2 g/L), different pH (3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8), different temperatures (20, 25, 30, 35, 40 °C), different contact times (30, 60, 90, 180, 360 minutes), different particle sizes (20, 40, 60, 100, 140 mesh) and different Pb concentrations(20, 40, 60 mg/L). Then adsorption isotherms and kinetic models of metal ions were determined based on Langmuir and Freundlich isotherms as well as first and second order kinetic models. Results: The efficiency of Pb removal by Chlorella sp. and Chaetoceros sp. algae was reported 78% and 60% respectively. The maximum adsorption was observed at optimal conditions including 25°C, pH of 6, 180 minutesof contact time, particle size of 20 mesh, 1.5 gr/L of adsorbent and 20 mg/L concentration of Pb.Chlorella algae was observed to remove Pb more than Chaetoceros algae. Based on the study results, Pbadsorption by Chlorella algae complies with Langmuir adsorption isotherm model, whereas Chaetoceros algae follows Freundlich model. The kinetic models of algae adsorption followed a second order equation. Conclusion: The study findings revealed that Chlorella algae can be effectively used in order to adsorb Pb from contaminated water due to its high efficiency of Pb adsorption

Comparative Study of Internal Assessment in the Department of Environmental Health for the School of Public Health in Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Iran, during 2008-2013

Background & Objective: The aim of this study was to compare the condition in the Department of Environmental Health Engineering from different viewpoints and determining its changes during the period under study, as well as reviewing their strengths and weaknesses, opportunities and threats to enhance the level of quality. Methods: This was a descriptive study that was done for six years from 2008 untill 2013 by Environmental Health Department. Goals, faculty members, students, courses and curriculum, the teaching, learning and graduates groups were evaluated. Then criteria and indicators were developed. Results: Interviews, observation, questionnaires and check list for each evaluation criteria according to their importance in comparison with other markers were weighted. Finally, the overall results obtained at the minimum and maximum weight of each criterion was determined, based on scores according to Likert scale. Conclusion: Environmental Health Department has been earned 302 out of the total 361 points. State of Department of Environmental Health, a total of six years was satisfactory and has been growing. The only unfavorable case was the lack of credit given to groups that operate in the area of group decision making is not straight. Identifying the bottlenecks recommended to be taken in order to focus on improving the challenging situations. Keywords Internal evaluation Environmental Health Department Kerman University of Medical Sciences Ira