Exploring the potential of Canavalia ensiformis for phytoremediation of B10 biodiesel-contaminated soil: insights on aromatic compound degradation and soil fertility.

ABSTRACT

The widespread use of petroleum-based fuels poses a significant environmental problem due to the risks associated with accidental spills. Among the treatments available, phytoremediation is increasingly accepted as an effective and low-cost solution. This study aimed to evaluate the degradation of the aromatic fraction of biodiesel B10 and the soil fertility analysis in artificially contaminated soils treated with phytoremediation. The experimental design consisted of a 3x3 factorial, with three types of soil treatment control, autoclaved, and planted with C. ensiformis L, and three levels of B10 biodiesel contamination 0, 1, and 2%, to simulate spills of 30,000 and 60,000 L ha-1. The soil was analyzed at three depths 0-10, 10-20, and 20-30 cm. The results indicated that aromatic compound degradation after phytoremediation was superior to 92,76% and 88,65% for 1% and 2% B10 soil contamination, respectively. The fuel contamination affected soil fertility, reducing the availability of phosphorus and zinc while increasing the Total Organic Carbon (TOC), pH, and the availability of manganese and iron for plants.

Numerous studies have been carried out on the phytoremediation of soils contaminated with diesel. However, the potential impact of biodiesel-diesel blends on soil fertility has not been fully explored, leading to a critical knowledge gap. This work investigates the novel effects of biodiesel-diesel blends on phytoremediation and soil fertility, allowing us to expand our understanding of the effectiveness of this approach to remediate contaminated sites.