Aerobic degradation 2,4-dinitrotoluene: effect of raw organic wastes and nitrogen amendment

Abstract

2,4-Dinitrotoluene (2,4-DNT), a major by-product of the synthesis of 2,4,6- trinitrotoluene, is widely used as a waterproofing, plasticizing and gelatinizing agent in propellants and explosives. Due to its toxicity, the compound is treated as a priority pollutant. Therefore, its removal from contaminated systems is a major focus of research and attention. Contaminated sites in Ibadan, Nigeria were screened for the presence of 2,4,-DNT degrading organisms. The technique of continual enrichment on NACs yielded bacterial isolates able to utilize 2,4-DNT as growth substrate. Based on phenotypic characteristics and 16S rRNA gene sequencing one of the isolates selected for further study was identified as Proteus sp. strain OSES2. Growth of the strain on 2,4-DNT resulted in exponential increase in biomass and complete substrate utilization within 72 h accompanied with NO 3 - elimination. Degradation competence enhanced in the presence of Corn steep liquor, molasses and Tween 80 compared to incubation without amendment. Conversely, amendment with nitrogen sources yielded no significant improvement in degradation. Use of this organism organic wastes as candidates in bioremediation strategy should be exploited. This would provide a cheaper organic source supplement for cleanup purposes with the ultimate aim of reducing the cost of bioremediation while reducing wastes intended for landfill.