Enhancing the hexavalent chromium bioremediation potential of Acinetobacter junii VITSUKMW2 using statistical design experiments.

The Cr(VI) removal capability of Acinetobacter junii VITSUKMW2 isolated from the Sukinda chromite mine site was evaluated and enhanced using statistical design techniques. The removal capacity was evaluated at different pH values (5-11) and temperatures (30-40 degrees C) and with various carbon and nitrogen sources. Plackett- Burman design was used to select the operational parameters for bioremediation of Cr(VI). Three parameters (molasses, yeast extract, and Cr(VI) concentration) were chosen for further optimization using central composite design. The optimal combination of parameters was found to be 14.85 g/l molasses, 4.72 g/l yeast extract, and 54 mg/l initial Cr(VI), with 99.95% removal of Cr(VI) in 12 h. A. junii VITSUKMW2 was shown to have significant potential for removal of Cr(VI).