Biofilms: Applications in Bioremediation

Bioremediation uses microorganisms to remove, detoxify, or immobilize pollutants, and does not require addition of harmful chemicals. Bioremediation is particularly suitable for large areas where contaminant concentrations are relatively low and the hydrology of the soil does not support an aggressive chemical remediation strategy. In the last few years, researchers have described the mechanisms of bioremediation for numerous priority pollutants, including chlorinated hydrocarbons, polyaromatic hydrocarbons, and heavy metals. However, most studies published to date have dealt with planktonic cultures grown under controlled laboratory conditions. Microorganisms in the environment occur mostl…