Biological and Chemical mechanisms involved in phytoremediation of hydrocarbons : A review

Bioremediation is an eco-friendly and cost-effective approach to mitigate hydrocarbon pollution in contaminated soils and water. This process involves the use of living organisms, such as plants, fungi, or microorganisms, to degrade or transform pollutants, thereby reducing their environmental impact. Phytoremediation, a specific branch of bioremediation, utilizes plants to absorb, degrade, or stabilize hydrocarbons in contaminated environments. Plants such as grasses, legumes, and trees are capable of accumulating hydrocarbons in their tissues or stimulating microbial communities in the rhizosphere to break down pollutants. The effectiveness of phytoremediation depends on factors like plant species, hydrocarbon type, and environmental conditions, including soil properties such as pH, nutrient availability, and moisture content. While phytoremediation offers a sustainable solution for hydrocarbon-contaminated sites, it is often complemented by other bioremediation techniques, such as bioaugmentation or biostimulation, to enhance its efficiency and applicability across diverse ecosystems. Further research is necessary to optimize plant selection, improve the degradation rates of complex hydrocarbon mixtures, and assess the long-term environmental impacts and sustainability of bioremediation systems. Additionally, integrating phytoremediation with other green technologies could further enhance its potential in large-scale environmental cleanup projects.

Biological and Chemical mechanisms involved in phytoremediation of hydrocarbons : A review Keywords:

Bioremediation , Phytoremediation , Soil , Hydrocarbons , Stabilization