Biosorption by Streptococcus mutans Bacteria against Pollutant Metal Manganese (II)

The development of electroplating industries has increased the potential for environmental pollution due to heavy metal waste, such as manganese (Mn), which is toxic. One alternative for treating this waste is through biosorption using microorganisms. This study aims to evaluate the biosorption capability of Streptococcus mutans against Mn(II) and to determine the optimum concentration conditions. The experiment was conducted by culturing Streptococcus mutans in Nutrient Broth media exposed to manganese (Mn) at varying concentrations (12, 18, 24 ppm). Metal absorption was analyzed using an atomic absorption spectrophotometer (AAS). The results showed that Streptococcus mutans was able to absorb Mn at exposure concentrations (12, 18, 24 ppm), with the maximum absorption rate of 71.97% at 18 ppm over 6 days. The optimum absorption time for Mn was found to be 4 days for all concentration variations, with the optimum absorption of 63.43% at 12 ppm.