Rourkela, July 25: National Institute of Technology (NIT) Rourkela Research team has secured a patent (Patent Number 567617 by the Patent Office, Government of India) for novel bacterial biofilm technology that can degrade phenanthrene, a toxic Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbon (PAH) commonly found in industrial chemical waste.

Contrary to conventional methods, the developed technology offers an environmentally friendly, effective, and cost-efficient solution for wastewater treatment.

PAHs are hazardous organic compounds capable of contaminating soil and water through fossil fuel combustion, industrial discharge, and oil spills. While the traditional methods used to address this challenge, such as chemical oxidation or soil excavation, are expensive and often generate secondary pollution, the developed technology provides a cheaper alternative to this global challenge.

The developed biofilm comprises of cells attached to the substratum within an extracellular polymeric matrix. The research team grew the biofilm using Luria Bertani broth, a nutrient rich medium.

Speaking about the research, Prof. Surajit Das, Department of Life Science, NIT Rourkela said, “The developed biofilm is well-compatible for integration in existing biofilm reactors used at municipal and industrial wastewater treatment facilities, especially those dealing with hydrocarbon-based pollutants. Our patented technology also opens opportunities for potential collaboration with the petrochemical industry to promote more sustainable pollution control practices.”

The biofilm developed by NIT Rourkela researchers has shown 95% degradation of phenanthrene over a period of five days.

The developed biofilm has demonstrated rapid PAH degradation attributed to enhanced metabolic capacity and structural stability of the biofilm matrix, which supports increased microbial cell density, prolonged viability, and effective substrate utilization.

Additionally, the biofilm contains a protective layer of Extracellular Polymeric Substances (EPS) that helps in dissolving and absorbing the harmful molecules while protecting the microbes from toxic effects.

Speaking about the impact of the research, Dr. Kumari Uma Mahto, Research Graduate, NIT Rourkela said, “The developed technology can help in mitigating the impact of industrial oil spills where phenanthrene and other PAHs pose a serious threat to marine ecosystems. It will also be highly beneficial for regions with high industrial activity and inadequate pollution control infrastructure.”

These findings of the present study highlight the potential of biofilm-based systems for enhanced biodegradation of persistent organic pollutants in wastewater treatment systems and contaminated aquatic environments.

As the next step, the research team will test the developed method on wider range of stubborn pollutants for extended usage. Additionally, the researchers are seeking collaborative alliances that move the technology from lab success to on-the-ground, large-scale use.

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