Rapid capturing of oil-degrading bacteria by engineered attapulgite and their synergistic remediation for oil spill

Hypothesis High-efficiency dispersion and enhanced biodegradation play important roles in the treatment of oily wastewater. Due to the flaws of chemical surfactants , it is necessary to study the alternative dispersants that are eco-friendly and sustainable. Therefore, applying natural attapulgite (ATP) to coat Brevibacillus parabrevis for dispersion and biodegradation was studied. Experiments To capture negatively charged bacteria in water, ATP was modified by positively charged Poly (allylamine hydrochloride) (PAH). The capturing capability of Poly (allylamine hydrochloride)-attapulgite (PAH-ATP) particles for bacterial cells, emulsification of PAH-ATP particles and bacteria on oil, toxicity of PAH-ATP to bacteria, biodegradation of oil, etc. , were comprehensively investigated. Findings PAH-ATP modified bacteria show a highly effective emulsification for oil due to the synergism of PAH-ATP and bacteria. The emulsion stabilized by (PAH-ATP)@bacteria presents small and stable oil droplets in one month, which is benefit for the following biodegradation. Compared with bare bacteria and PAH-ATP, PAH-ATP can capture bacteria to the surface of the oil droplets which can greatly improve the degradation of oil pollution. Importantly, the presence of PAH-ATP does not inhibit the reproduction and activity of bacteria. Treatment of oily wastewater by combining natural nanoparticles and oil-degrading bacteria has the advantages of economy, environmental protection, and sustainability.