Fixation of exhaust fume gases by Spirogyra species and Ulothrix species

Abstract: The biological fixation of carbon dioxide and other gases using algae has proved to be of major significance in recent times. The present study aims to check algae's ability to lower concentrations of various components of vehicular exhaust fume gases. Spirogyra species and Ulothrix species cultured in Algae Culture Broth were raised and introduced in bioreactors with exhaust fume gases. After the third day of inoculation of the algae in the bioreactor systems laden with exhaust fume gases, significant reductions in free carbon dioxide (42.5%) and sulphate (39.88%) concentrations were observed in Spirogyra species as compared to free carbon dioxide (25%) and sulphate (38.76%) concentrations in Ulothrix species. Reduction in nitrate concentration (45.71%) and acidic condition of pH (5.75%) were the same in both bioreactor systems.

Keywords: Carbon dioxide, Exhaust fume gases, Spirogyra, Ulothrix