Biofilm-mediated Degradation of PAHs and Pesticides
M. Pazos, L. Ferreira, E. Rosales and M.A. Sanromán
from: Biofilms in Bioremediation: Current Research and Emerging Technologies (Edited by: Gavin Lear). Caister Academic Press, U.K. (2016) Pages: 133-160.
Abstract
Environmental pollution caused by emerging organic compounds, such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and pesticides has attracted considerable attention in recent years. PAHs constitute a class of organic substances consisting of two or more fused benzene rings and exhibiting recalcitrance and strong mutagenic/carcinogenic properties. On the other hand, pesticides are used for controlling, repelling, preventing or eradicating pests, and include not only a wide range of chemical compounds but also, antimicrobial or disinfectant agents. Their composition often poses a threat for humans and the environment. As a result of the complex structure of both types of pollutants and their recalcitrant and persistent properties, the remediation of these compounds by conventional methods is often difficult. To solve this problem alternative treatment processes have been studied. Among them, biological treatment by biofilms has been found to be suitable for their remediation because of their high microbial biomass and ability to immobilise pollutants read more ...
