Development of an Experimental Rig for Bioremediation Studies

Abstract

In recent times cost of importing laboratory equipment for experimental studies is increasing at alarming rate and far beyond the reach of most educational and research institutions because of conflicting demands of these institutions. As a result, a study was carried out on the sizing, construction and testing of a robust and low cost experimental rig for bioremediation studies using indigenous technology. The experimental rig consists of air pretreatment unit, a fixed bed bioreactor, volatile organic compound trap or filter, air-flow meter, carbon dioxide (CO₂) trap and a stand. The fabricated rig was tested for biodegradation of Soil Contaminated with Spent Motor Oil (SCSMO) at control air-flow rate of 10 L/h. Results obtained revealed that the equipment was effective in the degradation of SCSMO; 75% removal of the initial oil and grease content was achieved in 10 weeks. Therefore, the developed rig can be used for bioremediation studies and in the same vein; it can be scaled up for commercial treatment of hydrocarbon contaminated soils.

Keywords: indigenous technology, spent motor oil, biostimulation, fixed bed bioreactor, low cost, oil and grease content.