Today, biological and oxidative methods are frequently used to remediate oil-contaminated soils. Both approaches have advantages and disadvantages in terms of speed, economy and environmental compatibility.
In the experiments carried out, an oxidation process was combined with a microbiological remediation approach. The petroleum hydrocarbons (PHC) were degraded much faster and more efficiently than in the individual applications. Within three months, 82% of the old PHC have been decomposed.
The soil was first treated with chemical oxidation, which destroyed 40% of the original PHC load in a short period of time. Subsequently a treatment with microorganisms took place, which provided for the further degradation.
In addition to removing pollutants, a significantly improved microflora was observed in the treated substrate, which is conducive to a sustainable restoration of the original soil.
The decontaminated soil can be used for agricultural purposes again within a short time.
Furthermore the method described provides a significant cost reduction compared with conventional treatment approaches.
Read the full publication here:
https://www.omicsonline.org/open-access/the-new-combined-chemicalbiological-remediation-method-for-oil-polluted-soils-oxidative-disposal-and-establishing-sustainable-soil-109353.html
