Eco-friendly Gracilaria sp. protein extract–PEGDA hydrogels for fluorescent detection and adsorptive removal of Hg2+ ions

Key Points

• Fluorescent detection of Hg2+ ions occurs through the use of Gracilaria sp. protein extract.
• The hydrogels demonstrated a removal efficiency of approximately 95% for mercury ions in tests.
• Hydrogel formulation combines protein extract with polyethylene glycol diacrylate, enhancing its adsorptive properties.
• The findings suggest a promising new approach for environmental remediation of toxic mercury contamination.