Assisted green remediation of chromium pollution

The effects of application of two anions commonly found in subsurface environments, phosphate (PO43−) and sulfate (SO42−), on hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) uptake and translocation by Zea mays, were investigated using pot-culture experiments. The two anions were tested as potential agents to mobilize Cr(VI) from polluted soil (50, 75 and 100 mg kg−1 dw) at a dose of 16.7 mmol kg−1. Metal uptake from soil to roots and subsequent transfer to shoots was discussed in terms of bioconcentration factor (BCF) and translocation factor (TF). The overall order of BCFs and TFs which resulted from this study was: PO43− > H2O > SO42−; in the same time, metal concentration in plants tissues decreased in the order: root > stem > leaf. The present study suggests that PO43− may be used as an environmentally compatible alternative to non-biodegradable synthetic chelants, to enhance the efficiency of Cr(VI) phytoextraction with Z. mays. •PO43− enhanced Cr(VI) uptake and translocation in Z. mays.•SO42− inhibited Cr(VI) uptake and translocation in Z. mays.•Competitive adsorption in soil and uptake mechanism in plants are found responsible.•pH of irrigation solution has an important role on Cr(VI) uptake by Z. mays.