Optimization of removal conditions of copper ions from aqueous solutions by Trametes versicolor.

A multi-step response surface methodology was successfully applied to optimize the biosorption conditions for the maximum removal of Cu(II) ions from aqueous solutions using Trametes versicolor fungi as a biosorbent. In the first step, the most effective medium factors, which are pH, temperature and initial Cu(II) concentration, on biosorption of Cu(II), were determined through Plackett-Burman Design. Then steepest accent followed by central composite design steps were utilized to evaluate the optimum biosorption conditions for the maximum Cu(II) ions removal. Based on the statistic analysis; the optimum conditions were obtained 5.51, 20.13 degrees C and 60.98 mg/L as medium pH, medium temperature and initial Cu(II) concentration, respectively. Finally the analysis of variance (ANOVA) of central composite design showed the proposed quadratic model fitted experimental data very well.