Bio-Remediation and Physicochemical Interaction of Experimentally Contaminated Soils in Uganda with Diesel

Abstract

This study was conducted for a period of 4 weeks to monitor and evaluate the process of bio-stimulation and natural recovery rates in terms of bacteria and fungi communities to diesel contaminated soils. In this study, laboratory experiments were conducted to measure pH, moisture content, Potassium (K), Phosphorous (P), Organic Nitrogen (ON), Organic Carbon (OC), Organic Matter (OM), fungi and bacteria cells before and after soils were intentionally contaminated with diesel. The results of this study showed that treatment level, K, P and pH have a positive effect on the number of bacterial cells whereas moisture content, sand and clay particles impact negatively. A correlation coefficient of R 2 =-0.93 was obtained between time and OC, OM, ON while OC, OM, ON and bacteria showed an R 2 =-0.58. Three conclusions can be drawn based on this study. One, by week 4, bacterial cells counts had doubled. Two, by week 4, bacterial counts numerically outnumbered fungal cells. Three, the increase in both bacterial and fungal cells was accompanied with a decrease in OM, OC and ON. This means that both bacterial and fungal cells had adapted by week 4.

Bioremediation Technology Potential for Management of Soil and Water Pollution from Anticipated Rapid Industrialization and Planned Oil and Gas Sector in Uganda: A Review

“…The heavy oil with carcinogenic compounds most times is attached to the sediments which are easily transported by the surface runoff into water bodies if poorly managed and disposed to the environment [14]. Therefore, the discovered petroleum deposits calls for preparation to safeguard the environment [15]. According to the Government's estimations, there is 6.5 billion barrels of oil in place, and only 1.8 -2.2 billion barrels is recoverable oil [16].…”

“…To address these draw backs, the best method which suits the complete removal of pollutants is using bioremediation approach which uses natural biological activities to destroy various contaminants. This is a safer, clean, cost effective and environmentally friendly technology with a high public acceptance and easily done at any site [15]. Industrial and crude oil contaminants can be degraded with use of microorganisms and plants in bioremediation processes.…”

“…Two or more remediation techniques can be used to improve the efficiency of bioremediation in a harshly contaminated environment [12]. Addition of nutrients along with seeding process has shown improved results for bioremediation [17] [15]. Different researchers have developed diverse technologies to treat contamination from the lessons learnt from successive practices of bioremediation process.…”