Improving the bio-reclamation efficiency of petrol-derived wastes with Trichocladium Canadense

Abstract

It is known that petroleum and its derivatives causes significant pollution in the environment as a result of accidents during the production, transportation and utilization processes. The low boiling compounds and aromatics present in the structure of the petroleum (including PAH and MAH) have toxic and even some carcinogenic effects on living organisms (Aydın et al., 2016). These wastes are not easily biodegradable due to the complex structure and accumulate in the soil which affect the soil structure and reduce the water retention therefore reducing its fertility (Mohan et al., 2011). Although the physical and chemical removal methods are applied to petroleum derived wastes seem to be effective, they cause secondary environmental pollution. Biological approach can be more environmental friendly and sustainable option to manage these wastes (Kolukırık et al., 2011). Consequently, the use of microorganisms capable of degrading toxic compounds known as bioremediation has become an attractive technology. Fungus species, producing ligninolytic enzymes reveal high efficiency especially in the degradation of low molecular weight PAHs (compounds with 2-3 ring structures). Some species such as Trichocladium canadense are effective on degradation of high molecular weight PAHs (compounds with 4-7 ring structures) (Silva et al., 2009; Aydın et al., 2016). The aim of this study is to specify the biodegradation yield of petroleum-derived wastes with the help of Trichocladium canadense, a unique fungus species, and to determine the bioenergy production to be obtained from such wastes.