Introducing a new method to determining the capacity of heavy metal absorption by macro algae on the coast of Persian Gulf based on Kullback-Leibler cumulative information

Abstract

Researchers have continuously sought effective and affordable ways to address contamination. Application of both live and deceased algae biomass has emerged as a highly effective and promising approach for remediation. In this study, the efficacy of macroalgal species (Padina gymnospora, Cladophoropsis membranacea, and Hypnea hamulosa) harvested from the northern coast of the Persian Gulf was evaluated for their capacity to biosorb heavy metals, with a focus on nickel, lead, cadmium, and mercury. The study encompassed two key components. Firstlythe experimental methodology was meticulously design using Design-Expert software. Secondly, a novel approach involving – the analysis of scanning electron microscope (SEM) images of the algae was introduced, employing a measure known as cumulative Kullback–Leibler information. The results showed that P. gymnospora is capable of removing 50% of Pb. The highest percentage of Cd removal was observed in H. hamulosa (86.44%), while the highest percentage of Hg removal was recorded in C. membranacea (50%). Both, the experimental and analysis of image methods yielded consistent findings, corroborating their reliability. Based on the findings of this study, image analysis employing cumulative Kullback–Leibler information presents a novel and cost effective means of assessment, contributing to the arsenal methods available for contamination treatment.