Optimization of chelators to enhance uranium uptake from tailings for phytoremediation

A greenhouse experiment was set up to investigate the ability of citric acid (CA), oxalic acid (OA), nitrilotriacetic acid (NTA) and EDTA for phytoremediation of uranium tailings by Indian mustard [Brassica juncea (L.) Czern. et Coss]. Uranium tailings were collected from Umra mining region and mixed with 75% of garden soil which yielded a 25:75 mixture. Prepared pots were divided into four sets and treated with following different concentrations – 0.1, 0.5, 2.5 and 12.5 mmol kg−1 soil additions for each of the four chelators. Control pots which were not treated with chelators. Experiments were conducted in completely randomized block design with triplicates. The optimum concentrations of these chelators were found on the basis of biomass production, tolerance and accumulation potential. The data collected were expressed statistically. EDTA produced maximum growth depression whereas, minimum occurred in the case of NTA. Maximum U uptake (3.5-fold) in the roots occurred at 2.5 mmol of CA, while NTA proved to be the weakest for the same purpose. Severe toxicity in the form of reduced growth and plant death was recorded at 12.5 mmol of each chelator. Minimum growth inhibition produced by chelators occurred in NTA which was followed by OA, moderate in CA and maximum was traced in EDTA applications. Chelator strengthened U uptake in the present study follows the order: CA > EDTA > OA > NTA.

► Four chelators (CA, EDTA, OA and NTA) were compared for U phytoremediation.
► Biomass production, tolerance and U accumulation were the criteria for comparison.
► Biomass production series during the investigation was as follows – NTA > OA > CA > EDTA.
► For the uptake and accumulation of U the order of chelators was – CA > EDTA > OA > NTA.
► CA was found to be the most effective chelator for uranium phytoremediation.