Effects of Lead on Biodegradation of Hydrocarbons in Soil

Abstract

The possible effects of lead on biodegradation of oily wastes in soil were studied in model experiments. It was found that addition of lead caused certain changes in the soil microflora: a general reduction of the bacterial populations and proliferation of a few fungal species. Simple alkanes were readily decomposed in presence of high concentrations of lead, but decomposition of complex mixtures of hydrocarbons (heavy fuel oil) was significantly retarded. The importance of these observations for the use of the soil cultivation process for disposal of oily waste is discussed.