Biosorption and Biodegradation of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) by Microalgae

Abstract

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are ubiquitous organic pollutants, primarily generated during the process of incomplete combustion, extraction, exploitation and transportation of fossil fuel. PAHs are environmental and human health hazards due to recalcitrance, toxicity, carcinogenic and mutagenic nature. Therefore, a sustainable cleanup approach is required for the removal of PAHs from contaminated sites. Efficiency of biosorption process for the removal of toxic pollutants has been thoroughly studied in the past. This chapter focuses on the application of microalgae green biosorbents for the removal of PAHs. Characteristics, environmental fate of PAHs and algal biochemistry are summarized. Algae cell structural constituents act as specific binding sites for removal of pollutant, and share enzymatic systems similar to bacteria. Major enzymes responsible for biodegradation of PAHs are described. Immobilization and co-culture technique for enhance biosorption are discussed.