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UDC 628.1.03

Ponomarev A. P.

Aqueous extract of shungite mineral – a complexing agent
for microorganisms in aqueous solution purification

Summary

The presence of microbiological pollution has been one of the most important factors that determine drinking water quality. Among the variety of water purification technologies unique mineral – shungite that contains carbon in active form – fullerene has been widely used over recent years. Herewith the strengths of shungite including bactericidal one are associated with fullerenes in particular. It is known that fullerenes merge into water in minimum concentrations; whereas for their efficient extraction organic solvents are needed. The results of studies of the effect of aqueous shungite extract containing beside macro- and microelements ultramicroelements – lanthanoids on microorganisms in aqueous solutions with the purpose of disinfection are presented. Electron microscopic studies provided for determining dual character of the effect: complex formation of microorganism cells and evident signs of bacterial cell destruction. Microorganisms as part of aqueous complexes are removed by sedimentation, centrifuging or microfiltration. Through the example of nanobacteria and foot-and-mouth disease viruses and virions the process of complex formation shall be considered as concentration with possible further use of the given microorganisms for scientific studies. The main mechanism of complex formation is the presence of high-reactive lanthanoid cations that are trivalent positive under normal conditions in shungite aqueous solution. The phenomenon of selective coagulation of bacterial cells is due to the reaction of lanthanoid cation complex formation with nucleic acids of microorganisms. It is assumed that the reaction of nucleic acid with metals is carried out by phosphate groups.

Key words

microorganisms , complexing , lanthanoids , electron microscopy , shungite , aqueous solution