Bioremedial Treatment for the Decontamination of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons for Sustainable Environment
摘要
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), along with their byproducts, are the widespread contaminants that require efficient remediation techniques. Many anthropogenic and natural factors contribute to the spread, dissemination, and accumulation of PAHs in aquatic and soil systems. PAHs are gaining worldwide attention due to their harmful effects, ability to persist in the environment, and potential for bioaccumulation. The contamination of PAHs primarily occurs from human activities related to the disposal of industrial and household run-off or atmospheric emissions from vehicles and industrial facilities. Once PAHs enter the environment, they experience various processes of transformation, which can be physical, chemical, or biological, known collectively as weathering processes. Treating sites contaminated with PAHs is often a challenging and costly endeavour, so it would be wise to pursue a method that is adaptive, sustainable, environmentally friendly, efficient, and cost-effective. The use of green technologies can enhance remediation efficiency with minimal negative environmental impacts. This chapter explains the sources and properties of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. Different types of remediation methods for the elimination of PAHs are discussed. This chapter highlights the challenges, limitations, and latest advancements in technologies for removing PAHs, including their mechanism. Combining bioremediation could serve as an effective method for sustainable environmental cleanup.