Modeling of lead and cadmium uptake by plants in the presence of surfactants

The mechanism of simultaneous uptake of Cd(II) and Pb(II) by Indian mustard (Brassica juncea) in presence of Triton X-100 and Tween 80 was investigated. The metal uptake data were analyzed according to the linear as well as the nonlinear Langmuir- and Freundlich-type models. The modeling efficiency (EF) and the root mean square error (RMSE) were used to evaluate the models prediction. Compared to the linear and the Langmuir-type models, the Freundlich-type model marginally exhibits a better fit for the biosorption of solubilized Cd(II) by surfactants as reflected by higher EF and lower RMSE values. The values of observed Pb(II) uptake were in close agreement with the predictions of the Freundlich-type model than for the Langmuir-type model.