Abstract

Remediation of used lubricating oil contaminated soil using organic waste amendments

Author(s): O.P.Abioye, P.Agamuthu, A.R.Abdul Aziz

Contamination of soil by used lubricating oil ismore prominent in developing countries. This poses a serious threat to the flora and fauna in the environment. Soil contaminated with 5%, 10% and 15%(w/w) used lubricating oil was amended with organic wastes [banana skin (BS), brewery spent grain (BSG) and spent mushroom compost (SMC)]. The study was conducted under natural conditions for 12 months to determine the effects of each organic waste on biodegradation of used lubricating oil. GC/FID results of the oil extracts at the end of 12 months showed complete degradation below detection limit for C7 to C14 hydrocarbon fractions, in all the organic wastes amended treatments for 5%and 10%oil pollution. C7 to C14 hydrocarbon fractions were not completely degraded in unamended soil and all treatments with 15% oil pollution, except BSG amended soil. BSG amended soil recorded better degradation of C29 to C36 fractions from6871 mg/kg to 800 mg/kg, compared to BS and SMC treated soil. Complete degradation of fluorene, phenanthrene, anthracene and pyrene below detection limits were recorded in BSG treated soil after 12 months in 5%, 10% and 15% oil pollution. The results of this study attest to the potential of BSG in enhancing oil biodegradation in soil. Hence, BSG can serve as a good candidate for promoting biodegradation of used lubricating oil in soil environment.