Screening of encapsulated microbial cells for the degradation of inorganic cyanides

Abstract

Different encapsulation matrices were screened to encapsulate cells ofPseudomonas putida for degradation of inorganic cyanides. Degradation of NaCN by free cells and cells immobilized in agar, alginate or carrageenan matrices was studied. The rate of NaCN degradation was monitored for 120 h by measuring pH, bacterial growth, dissolved and gaseous NH3 and gaseous CO2. Alginate-immobilized cells degraded NaCN more efficiently than free cells or agar- or carrageenan-immobilized cells.