Extraction of Saxitoxin on Green Mussel (Perna viridis) Using Activated Carbon by Adsorption Method

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

Paralytic shellfish poisoning, also known as PSP, is a foodborne illness that typically develops after consumption of shellfish contaminated with a specific type of neurotoxin called saxitoxin. The main purpose of the study is to extract the neurotoxin from the mussel using a safe and natural way. Activated carbon will be used to adsorb the toxins and extract it from the mussels. The poison adsorption may be limited by the administration of activated charcoal either as a single dose or in multiple doses. Adsorption is a process in which atoms and molecules move from a bulk phase (such as a solid, liquid, or gas) onto a solid or liquid surface.

METHODS

The researchers produced their own "algal bloom" which was then ingested by the mussels. The dinoflagellates were cultured within conditions. From there, the mussels have undergone a procedure of detection by the use of photo-induced electron transfer sensor. Then, the extraction of saxitoxin in the mussels was done through submerging it in water diluted with an activated carbon solution. The experimentation was done by the adsorption process.

RESULTS

After the experiment, the study showed that 89% of the toxins were trapped and adsorbed by the activated carbon's properties. As activated carbon (activated charcoal) is a crude form of graphite, the graphite structure gave it a very large surface area, which allowed the carbon to adsorb a wide range of compounds. Therefore, the results showed that the activated carbon efficiently adsorbs the toxins away from the mussels.

DISCUSSIONS

Therefore, the researchers concluded, that if this study were to be be accepted, it will be a big help to eliminate saxitoxins present in the said mussel (Green Mussel) to help increase the export rate of the seafood and to help those in danger of the illness whilst consuming the shellfish. This also proved the activated carbon's adsorbing properties within toxins. The study showed that the activated carbon traps the toxins in its pores and therefore adsorbs the particles and takes it away from the mussels.