Factors that Determine Bioremediation of Organic Compounds in the Soil

Abstract

Man’s quest for technological advancement and the need to meet food supply for growth have distorted the natural balance of the soil constituents. Year round, waste products find their way to the soil from natural and anthropogenic sources. When these waste products enter the soil; they are subjected to physical, chemical and biological processes that ultimately determine their fate and transport characteristics. Organic compounds are among these waste products. Knowledge of factors that determine fate of organic compounds in the soil became quite apt to know the condition under which biodegradation processes can be effective. In this study therefore various factors have been discussed. Also, requisite information about the design of bioremediation system for organic compounds had been explained to allow for better understanding of potential toxicity of the organic compound to micro organisms, nutrient requirement for biodegradation activity and the compatibility of site geochemistry with nutrient solution proposed for addition.

DOI: 10.5901/ajis.2013.v2n13p125