Nitro-PAHs: Occurrences, ecological consequences, and remediation strategies for environmental restoration
Journal
Chemosphere
Journal Volume
356
ISSN
0045-6535
Date Issued
2024-05
Author(s)
DOI
10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.141795
Abstract
Nitrated polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (nitro-PAHs) are persistent pollutants that have been introduced into the environment as a result of human activities. They are produced when PAHs undergo oxidation and are highly resistant to degradation, resulting in prolonged exposure and significant health risks for wildlife and humans. Nitro-PAHs' potential to induce cancer and mutations has raised concerns about their harmful effects. Furthermore, their ability to accumulate in the food chain seriously threatens the ecosystem and human health. Moreover, nitro-PAHs can disrupt the normal functioning of the endocrine system, leading to reproductive and developmental problems in humans and other organisms. Reducing nitro-PAHs in the environment through source management, physical removal, and chemical treatment is essential to mitigate the associated environmental and human health risks. Recent studies have focused on improving nitro-PAHs' phytoremediation by incorporating microorganisms and biostimulants. Microbes can break down nitro-PAHs into less harmful substances, while biostimulants can enhance plant growth and metabolic activity. By combining these elements, the effectiveness of phytoremediation for nitro-PAHs can be increased. This study aimed to investigate the impact of introducing microbial and biostimulant agents on the phytoremediation process for nitro-PAHs and identify potential solutions for addressing the environmental risks associated with these pollutants.
Subjects
Biostimulants
Emerging pollutants
Microbes
Nitrated polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (nitro-PAHs)
Phytoremediation
Publisher
Elsevier BV
Type
journal article