Resumo

FERNANDEZ, Celeste et al. Biodegradation of asphalt and resins by microorganism coming from an oil contaminated soil. Rev. Fac. Ing. UCV [online]. 2008, vol.23, n.4, pp.7-15. ISSN 0798-4065.

This study was based on the recovery of a soil used by agricultural and cattle activities contaminated with medium crude coming from abandoned well spills that present natural seeps of crude applying the bioremediation technique. The methodology consisted of selecting the affected area and taking samples to a depth of 15 cm, which were then homogenized and placed in four bioreactors for later treatment, one as control while the rest were treated by surfactant minimum means (SMM) that provide necessary nutrients for the development of bacteria. The total petroleum hydrocarbons (TPH) concentrations were determined by gravimetric methods and during a 30 day treatment values of 41% and 61% in the soils treated and not treated were obtained respectively, values which are above those established by Venezuelan environmental norms. With regards to asphalt fractions, changes in the retorts were registered, whereas the soil with control treatment remained stable because the bacteria in the presence of the SMM reach the requirements necessary to attack the fraction of petroleum. In the fractions of resins there was also a decrease over time, more in the retorts that in the control treatment.

Palavras-chave : Asphalts; Resins; Total petroleum hydrocarbons (TPH); Bioremediation.