Influence of Surfactants on Interfacial Microbial Degradation of Hydrophobic Organic Compounds

This review explores the role of surfactants in enhancing or inhibiting the biodegradation of hydrophobic organic compounds (HOCs) by microorganisms. Bioavailability, the extent to which pollutants can be accessed and metabolized by microbes, is a key factor in determining degradation efficiency. Hydrophobic organic compounds, like polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, have limited bioavailability due to their low aqueous solubility, hindering microbial uptake. Microorganisms utilize strategies such as biofilm formation and direct adhesion to hydrophobic surfaces to overcome this limitation. Surfactants, both synthetic and biosurfactants, have been explored to improve HOC bioavailability by increasing solubility through micelles or emulsions. However, surfactants can also affect microbial adhesion by altering cell surface properties, leading to mixed results in degradation efficiency. Biosurfactants, which are more environmentally friendly, show promise in enhancing biodegradation without the toxic effects of synthetic surfactants. The review highlights the complex interactions between surfactants, microbial adhesion, and HOC biodegradation, emphasizing the need for tailored surfactant formulations to optimize bioremediation. Future research should focus on balancing the surfactant concentration and microbial surface properties to enhance biodegradation in contaminated environments.