Biostimulation Of Chemically Treated Petroleum Hydrocarbon Polluted Soil.

Abstract

Environmental and social challenges from oil spills remain an industry concern, prompting studies into effective cleanup approaches. The use of H2O2 and biostimulation have gained popularity in recent times. This study investigated four key issues on adopting H2O2 and biostimulation in oil cleanup. First, was to identify the optimal percentage concentration of H2O2, needed to oxidise petroleum hydrocarbon contamination in coastal soil from the Ahanta West District. The second was to evaluate the potential of enhancing the soil treatment process by biostimulating the pre-oxidised contaminated soil using chemical fertilizer. The third was to compare and evaluate which treatment method was costeffective over a period of 24 days. Finally, the study investigated perceptions, knowledge and expectations of three coastal communities (Dixcove, Akwidaa and Cape Three Points) on oil spills clean-up response. Pristine coastal soil from Cape Three Points was spiked with crude oil from TEN oil field. Treatment with different concentrations of either 6%, 30%, or 60% H2O2, or a combination of either one of the H2O2 concentrations and a chemical fertilizer as biostimulant was undertaken. Laboratory tests were conducted on soil samples over a 24 day period on total petroleum hydrocarbon levels (GC-MS), polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon levels (GC-MS), and nutrient levels (nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium). The study established that treatment with 30% or 60% H2O2 over a 3 day period was the most optimally efficient remediation approach, while biostimulating soil pretreated with high H2O2 concentration does not significantly improve natural treatment potential of the soil within a period of 24 days. The most cost-effective treatment approach was the use of 6% hydrogen peroxide. The study further established that critical gaps existed in community knowledge and understanding on oil spill cleanup duration.