Contaminated areas by BTEX in Cubatão: isolation of microorganisms with bioremediation potential and study of environmental and social impacts caused by these compounds

Author(s)

Ingrid Regina Avanzi

• Document type: Master's Dissertation
• Press: São Paulo.
• Institution: Universidade de São Paulo (USP). Instituto de Eletrotécnica e Energia (IEE/BT)
• Defense date: 2012-07-04

Examining board members

Claudio Augusto Oller do Nascimento; Sonia Maria Flores Gianesella; Luciana Jandelli Gimenes

• Advisor: Claudio Augusto Oller do Nascimento; Elen Aquino Perpetuo

Abstract

Contaminated soils by hydrocarbons known as BTEX (benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene and xylene), represent a risk to communities who live close to these places. These compounds are toxic, carcinogenic and can cause death to people, even in extremely small concentrations. Citizens often have no idea who and how hazardous are these contaminants. Millions of homes have been built on dangerous actives wastes, emitting gases and contaminating the groundwater. In particular, the problem is worst in Cubatão due inappropriate use of water from rivers and streams, which by a percolation process, contaminate soil. Most of times the water collected points are near from the contaminated site. This study reports the successful isolation and characterization of 4 bacteria strains isolated from an industrial soil in Cubatão-Brazil, using a culture enrichment technique. The idea is use these microorganisms in future soils bioremediation processes (treatment). This work have as partners, social and environmental programs from the Center for Training and Environmental Research (CEPEMA-POLI-USP), which has as goal educate poor people against dangers of BTEX. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 11/01537-2 - Contaminated areas by BTEX in Cubatão: isolation of microorganisms with bioremediation potential and study of environmental and social impacts caused by these compounds
• Grantee: Ingrid Regina Avanzi
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Master