Application of Biosurfactant Produced by Bacillus lichneformis and Chemical Surfactant in Biodegradation of Crude Oil: Part I

H.S. El-Sheshtawy*, A. S. El-Tabei, A. S. Kobisy and M.M. Doheim

Egyptian Petroleum Research Institute (EPRI), Nasr City, Cairo, Egypt.

DOI : http://dx.doi.org/10.13005/bbra/1161

ABSTRACT: The biodegradation capacity of crude oil in mineral salt medium by a bacterial strain (Bacillus lichneformis) was analyzed. The biosurfactant and synthesized nonionic surfactant were used separately to enhance the biodegradation process. The biodegradation percentage was demonstrated at 50% of microcosms containing biosurfactant and chemical surfactant. The biosurfactant and chemical surfactant were deceased surface tension of the culture media to 38 and 42 mN/m, respectively. The bacterial strain consumed iso-paraffins more than n-paraffins in crude oil samples. Additionally, this bacterial strain could utilize the five and six member rings of polyaromatics compounds which consider being more toxic and carcinogenic for soil and aquatic environment. The results indicated that the bacterial strain has a potential to be applied in bioremediation of petroleum contaminated sites.

KEYWORDS: Biosurfactants; chemical surfactant; biodegradation; petroleum crude oil; Bacillus lichneformis

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