Oil-degrading bacteria from a membrane bioreactor (MBR) system for treatment of saline oily waste: isolation, identification and characterization of the biotechnological potential

This study was focused on the microbial community characterization during operation of a Membrane Bioreactor System, used for the treatment of saline oily wastes, originated from marine transportation. A collection of forty-two (42) strains was obtained during microbiological screening and the bacterial diversity analyzed by amplification and 16S rRNA sequencing. Taxonomic analysis has shown a high level of identity with recognized sequences for a total of seven (7) distinct bacterial genera (Alcanivorax, Erythrobacter, Marinobacter, Microbacterium, Muricauda, Rhodococcus and Rheinheimera). The biotechnological potential of all isolates was identified by the estimate of two key factors, suc…

Biological Approaches to the Treatment of Saline Oily Waste(waters) Originated from Marine Transportation

Oily wastewater generated, in amounts of millions of tons per year, by ships mainly in engine-rooms (bilge waters) and by washing oil tanks (slops) create a major disposal problem throughout the world because of the persistence and accumulation of xenobiotic compounds in the environment. The high salinity levels (up to 25.000 p.p.m.) and the pollutants concentration limit the chances of discharge into the sewer systems and address the disposal of these waste(water)s to the sea. Tightening effluent regulations and consequent high energy and management costs has generated interest in the introduction of biological phases in the treatment of these wastewater. The objectives of this study were …

Behaviour of Zr/Hf and Y/Ho ratios during transition between seawater column and deep-sea brines