Integration of Photocatalysis and Bioremediation for Enhanced Removal of Crude Oil Contaminants in Surface Water Systems
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47941/je.3767Keywords:
Photocatalysis, Bioremediation, Crude Oil, Water Treatment, Hydrocarbon Degradation, Niger Delta, Environmental RemediationAbstract
Purpose: This study evaluated the effectiveness of an integrated photocatalysis–bioremediation approach for the treatment of crude oil–contaminated surface water systems in oil-producing regions such as the Niger Delta, Nigeria. The aim was to determine whether combining photocatalytic oxidation and microbial degradation would enhance the removal of petroleum hydrocarbons and improve overall water quality.
Methodology: An experimental design involving four treatment systems control, photocatalysis, bioremediation, and an integrated photocatalysis–bioremediation system, was employed over 21 days. Surface water samples were artificially contaminated to an initial Total Petroleum Hydrocarbon (TPH) concentration of 520 mg/L. Physicochemical parameters including Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD), Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD₅), dissolved oxygen (DO), and pH were monitored alongside microbial population dynamics. Treatment performance was evaluated based on pollutant reduction efficiency, microbial activity, and kinetic modeling using a pseudo-first-order reaction model. Statistical analysis was conducted using ANOVA at p < 0.05.
Findings: The integrated photocatalysis–bioremediation system demonstrated the highest treatment efficiency, achieving 92.6% TPH degradation, 88.9% COD reduction, and 90.4% BOD₅ reduction. TPH concentration decreased significantly from 520 mg/L to 38.4 mg/L after 21 days. Dissolved oxygen improved from 2.10 mg/L to 6.45 mg/L, while pH stabilized near neutrality, indicating substantial water quality recovery. Microbial populations increased from 1.2 × 10⁵ to 8.1 × 10⁷ CFU/mL, confirming active biodegradation. Statistical analysis (ANOVA) revealed significant differences among treatment groups (p < 0.001), and degradation kinetics followed a pseudo-first-order model.
Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: This study advances environmental remediation theory by demonstrating the synergistic interaction between photocatalytic oxidation and microbial mineralization processes. The study recommends the adoption of integrated photocatalysis–bioremediation systems for large-scale treatment of oil-contaminated water bodies, particularly in the Niger Delta region. Environmental agencies and policymakers should support the deployment of hybrid remediation technologies through funding, pilot-scale implementation, and infrastructure development. Furthermore, regulatory frameworks should encourage the integration of sustainable, low-cost, and environmentally friendly remediation technologies into national oil spill response strategies.
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