Biomagnetic separation and extraction process

This paper describes a process by which paramagnetic metal ions are deposited on the surface of microorganisms as an insoluble salt, and the coated cells are collected from suspension by high gradient magnetic separation (HGMS).The process allows concentration of metal ions by factors of up to 10⁷. The process is practically useful in the removal of toxic metals from waste waters, and is relevant to the removal of radionuclides from solutions generated by the nuclear industry Extremely low residual concentrations are obtainable.