Abstract
Petroleum is one of the most important sources of energy in the world. It is composed of hundreds of various hydrocarbons, from short-chain volatile alkanes to long-chain polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. The ubiquitous occurrence of dangerous petroleum organic compounds in the soil is a prevalent environmental problem owing to their potential toxicity, mutagenicity, carcinogenicity, and capability to be bioaccumulated in the food chain. The remediation of petroleum hydrocarbon-contaminated soils using effective and environmentally friendly treatment technologies is a major challenge. Bioremediations are inexpensive technologies and are accordingly considered to be a good choice for the treatment of polluted soils. However, there are several limitations associated with the application of these technologies at contaminated sites. Therefore, finding a solution to enhance bioremediation efficiency is essential. This chapter provides a critical review of chemical-assisted biological methods. The chapter begins with a discussion of the importance of petroleum, its various impacts on the environment, and the necessity of its removal. Different in situ remediation technologies are introduced and compared. The key findings about in situ biological treatment processes are stated, and their main limitations are highlighted. Then, the used chemical methods in conjugation with bioremediation are documented and discussed with an emphasis on surfactants and nanomaterials. Primary mechanisms leading to enhanced removal efficiency as well as the role of operational factors are stated. Field application challenges are presented and discussed. Finally, some vital research findings and gaps in present understanding are highlighted.
Original language | English |
---|---|
Title of host publication | Biotechnology of Emerging Microbes |
Subtitle of host publication | Prospects for Agriculture and Environment |
Publisher | Elsevier B.V. |
Pages | 217-261 |
Number of pages | 45 |
ISBN (Electronic) | 9780443153976 |
ISBN (Print) | 9780443153983 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - Jan 1 2023 |
Keywords
- Chemical-assisted biological methods
- Contaminated soils
- In situ remediation
- Petroleum hydrocarbons
- Removal efficiency
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- General Biochemistry,Genetics and Molecular Biology