**2.3. Instrumentation**

The modified and unmodified algae were characterized using a Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectrometer (FTIR-8400, Shimadzu Tokyo, Japan) to establish the functional groups present. The concentration of metal pollutants in the water samples was determined using atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS) (Buck, model 210 VGP) set at the optimum operating conditions and wavelength of each respective metal. All pH measurements were done using a calibrated (Jenway 3505) pH metre equipped with a standard calomel electrode (SCE). A constant shaker model CFC 3018 with a water bath was used to shake the samples at the required shaking speeds.
