Adsorption properties of bacterial biomass were tested for Cd removal from liquid effluents. Experimental conditions (pH, time, cellular mass, volume, metal concentration) were studied to develop an efficient biosorption process with free or immobilised cells of Pseudomonas veronii 2E. Surface fixation was chosen to immobilise cells on inert surfaces including teflon membranes, silicone rubber and polyurethane foam. Biosorption experiments were carried out at 32 degrees C and controlled pH; maximal Cd(II) retention was observed at pH 7.5. The isotherm followed the Langmuir model (K-d = 0.17 mM and q(max) = 0.48 mmol/g cell dry weight). Small changes in the surface negative charge of cells were observed by electrophoretic mobility experiments in presence of Cd(I I). In addition, biosorption of 40% Cu(II) (pH 5 and 6.2) and 50% Zn(II) and 50% Cd(II) (pH 7.5) was observed from mixtures of Cu(II), Zn(II) and Cd(II) 0.5 mM each. (C) 2007 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.