ABSTRACT
Microalgae, macroalgae and seagrass biomass can be considered as functional materials enabling various biotechnology and environmental technology applications. Using an appropriate magnetic modification, smart materials exhibiting a rapid response to an external magnetic field can be obtained. Such composite materials can be easily and selectively separated from desired environments. Magnetically responsive derivatives of algal and seagrass biomass have already been prepared and used as efficient biosorbents for the removal of organic and inorganic pollutants. Algal and seagrass biomass low cost and availability of waste biomass in larger amounts predetermine their utilization in large-scale processes. This chapter summarizes studies dealing with magnetic derivatives of unicellular algae, marine algae, seagrass and algae derived biochar/activated carbon, describes possibilities of their preparation and testing as efficient biosorbents of environmental contaminants, and inspires further exploration in this field of waste materials utilization.
