Joint Application of Biological Techniques for the Remediation of Waste Contaminated with Hydrocarbons

摘要

Abstract Cleaning the oil industry's fuel storage and management facilities generates high levels of hazardous waste. This research aims to assess the use of biological bioremediation treatments, most commonly used for decontaminating soil, by applying them to hydrocarbon-contaminated waste. Turned pile composting using food-derived sludge as a co-substrate and the necessary proportion of bulking agent enabled the bioremediation of the initial mixture via the succession of microbial populations (PLFAs), with a 70% lower TPH concentration obtained 6?months after the start of the process. Subsequent bioassays using the composted material showed survival rates of over 80% with earthworms (Eisenia andrei) and a larger decrease in TPH in the joint treatment with earthworms and plants (Pennisetum clandestinum). The composting process reduces the concentration of hazardous organic compounds, allowing for the proper development of fauna and flora in the compost by improving the biodegradation rate.Graphical Abstract