Study of decolorization of FD&C blue # 2 indigotine by fungus Trametes versicolor combined with slow sand filtration

The use of fungi in the decolorization of dyes with economically viable methods of producing bacteriologically safe water has long been described by several authors. This study aimed to investigate the removal efficiency of artificial coloring FD&C Blue n^o 2 Indigo, using the degradation white fungus Trametes versicolor in combination with slow sand filtration. Two prototype filters slowly termed FL-A and FL-B were installed - the supernatant water of filter FL-A was inoculated with the fungus, while filter FL-B was used as control. The best percentage of dye removal by the fungus Trametes versicolor in combination with the slow sand filtration was 44.74% achieved 24 hours after the maximum laccase activity. The results show that the combination of the fungus T. versicolor with slow sand filtration treatment presents no great potential for color removal at 21 days of treatment, whereas microbial products generated interfere with the filtration process, lowering the efficiency of the physical process. However, with the restriction of the handling time into 24 hours after the maximum enzymatic activity, combined treatment showed good efficiency.

decoloration; slow sand filtration; dye; Trametes versicolor