Biodegradation of Phenolic Compounds in Contaminated Water: Efficacy of Immobilized Bacterial Strains and Environmental Factors

Document Type : Research Article (Original Research)

Authors

1 Environmental Chemistry and Toxicology, Department of Environmental Studies, Institute of Graduate Studies and Research, Alexandria University.

2 Environmental Biotechnology Department, Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology Research Institute City of Scientific Research and Technology Application.

Abstract

Water, essential for life, faces increasing contamination due to industrialization and urbanization. Phenolic compounds, persistent and toxic, are prominent pollutants in aquatic environments, necessitating effective remediation strategies. This study evaluates the degradation of phenolic compounds by two bacterial strains, Stenotrophomonas sp. and Pseudomonas sp. A7, focusing on their performance under varying conditions and the impact of cell immobilization on their efficacy. Phenol degradation was tested across different concentrations, temperatures, and pH levels. Stenotrophomonas sp. exhibited high efficiency at lower phenol concentrations, with a decrease in performance as concentrations increased. In contrast, Pseudomonas sp. A7 maintained better degradation efficiency at higher phenol levels. Optimal conditions for both strains were identified at neutral to slightly acidic pH and moderate temperatures. Immobilization of bacterial cells in calcium alginate beads improved degradation efficiency slightly, with Stenotrophomonas sp. achieving 93% and Pseudomonas sp. A7 92% removal rates. The results underscore the effectiveness of both bacterial strains in phenol bioremediation, highlighting the potential of immobilization and environmental optimization for enhancing wastewater treatment processes. Further research into bead formulation and concentration could improve the practical application of these bioremediation techniques.

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