Scientists from Omsk State Technical University (OmSTU) have developed an innovative biotechnology for cleaning soils contaminated with oil and petroleum products. The method allows reducing the level of contamination by 50-60% in three to four months, and with the use of earthworms — up to 90%. This is reported in the university's patent.
The technology involves adding a sorbent, a biological product, and earthworms to the soil. The method is effective at a soil temperature of at least +5°C and a humidity of at least 60%. Lowland milled peat with a high ability to absorb petroleum products is used as a sorbent. "Tamir", which contains a complex of microorganisms, is used as a biological product.
The key element of the technology is the Californian earthworm species Eisenia andrei, known for its resistance to oil pollution and high reproductive capacity.
The process consists of the sequential introduction of a sorbent and a biological product, followed by the introduction of worms and organic fertilizer. This method is suitable for various types of soils, including chernozems, loams, and sandy soils. The approach is applicable for use in most regions of Russia.
Earlier www1.ru reported that Krasnodar chemists developed a technology for cleaning sand from fuel oil.