A Study on Toluene Degrading Bacteria

Petroleum hydrocarbon are classified into four; (1) the saturates, (2) the aromatics, (3) the asphaltenes (phenol, fatty acids, ketones, esters and porphyrins) and (4) the resins (pyridines, quinolines, carbazoles, sulfoxides and amides). The aromatic hydrocarbons are the class of chemicals that deal with benzene and its derivatives. BTEX or BTX is a mixture of benzene, toluene, ethyl benzene and xylene. This group of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) is found in petroleum hydrocarbons and other environmental contaminants. They are aromatic hydrocarbons containing one unsubstituted or methyl-substituted benzene ring. BTEX compounds are classified as major pollutants with high frequencies of occurrence on the EPA (Environmental protection agency) list of priority pollutants. Toluene is alkyl benzene having one methyl group added to the benzene ring.It's IUPAC name is Methylbenzene. Toluene has a serious health effect on the nervous system (brain and nerves). Acute and chronic effects are also observed when humans are exposed to toluene. Humans are primarily exposed to toluene and it is moderately toxic when ingested or inhaled and slightly hazardous when absorbed through skin. Toluene can enter human body from the air, water or soil. When toluene is inhaled, it is directly taken into the blood from the lungs. Toluene leaves the body unchanged during respiration and excretion or it is converted into a less harmful chemical such as hippuric acid. The present study is aimed at isolating toluene degrading from polluted environment which can be used as an eco – friendly and efficient Bioremediation tool