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ABSTRACT: Mining operations can mobilize toxic metals into surrounding waterways, creating persistent environmental challenges. This study evaluated the potential of Talaromyces sp., a metal-tolerant fungus, encapsulated in calcium alginate hydrogels for the removal of Cu²⁺, Zn²⁺, and Mn²⁺ from synthetic mining-influenced water (MIW). Batch reactors were operated for 240 h at circumneutral pH using synthetic MIW containing Cu (2 mg/L), Zn (200 µg/L), and Mn (200 µg/L). Four treatment conditions were evaluated: alginate only, alginate with fungi, fungi only, and untreated control. Copper removal reached approximately 87% in alginate-only reactors and 80% in alginate-fungi reactors, while manganese removal exceeded 97% in both alginate treatments. Zinc removal remained limited (≤18%) across all conditions. Comparable metal removal in untreated controls indicated that precipitation contributed substantially to metal removal. SEM-EDX confirmed association of Cu, Mn, and Zn with reacted materials, while FTIR showed minor shifts in the COO⁻ asymmetric stretching band (∼1590 to 1587–1588 cm⁻¹), consistent with metal-carboxylate literature. Together with geochemical modeling predicting calcite and hydroxyapatite formation, results suggest that metal removal was governed primarily by coupled geochemical and surface-associated processes rather than direct biosorption. These findings support the development of low-cost passive treatment strategies for mining-impacted waters.
BIOSKETCH: Macy Winn is from Chandler, Arizona, and is currently pursuing an accelerated master’s degree in environmental engineering under the mentorship of Dr. Cherie De Vore. Her passion for sustainability and environmental stewardship has fueled her interest in environmental remediation, where her growth as a researcher has been shaped by the encouragement of a collaborative, fun, and supportive research group. Outside the lab, Macy enjoys staying active through fun activities such as pickleball, disc golf, and, more recently, slacklining. Following graduation, she plans to pursue a career in environmental remediation consulting after taking time to travel.