Potential for the use of photosystem II submembrane fractions immobilised in poly(vinylalcohol) to detect heavy metals in solution or in sewage sludge

Photosystem II submembrane fractions were immobilised by entrapment in poly (vinyl-alcohol) bearing styrylpyridinium groups (PVA-SbQ). The properties o f the immobilised material, in a single-compartment micro-photoelectrochemi cal cell using platinum electrodes in potentiostatic mode, were compared wi th native (free) samples. The optimal operating conditions were investigate d (electron acceptor concentration, pH, temperature, time contact and chlor ophyll concentration). The photocurrent of the immobilised fractions could be inhibited by pollutants such as heavy metals (mercury, copper, lead, cad mium, chromium, nickel, and zinc) in solution. The potential for use of thi s system to evaluate the toxicity of sewage sludges was shown. (C) 2000 Soc iety of Chemical Industry.