A Study of Rapid Biodegradation of Oily Wastes through Composting

摘要

The potential for rapid biodegradation of oily wastes through composting was studied on a laboratory scale. Mixtures of crude and No. 6 oil with various bulking materials were analyzed for physical and chemical characteristics, and test composted in the bin composter developed by Energy Resources Co., Inc. During the several week composting periods, samples of the compositing material were analyzed to quantify the population of hydrocarbon degrading microbes and to determine the degree of biodegradation achieved. Results of the study show that both crude and No. 6 oils were degraded, with a much greater observable breakdown of the No. 6 oil. This laboratory study suggests that composting may hold significant promise as a method of treating oily wastes on a large scale. Additional investigations to further clarify the nature of the process are recommended. (Author)