Characterization and Application of Biosurfactant producing Bacteria and Nanoparticle Synthesis for Bioremediation and Plant Growth Promotion

Characterization and Application of Biosurfactant producing Bacteria and Nanoparticle Synthesis for Bioremediation and Plant Growth Promotion U. Sowbaranika K. Ashokkumar G. Abirami Samson S. Miller Balu Prakash

Biosurfactants are surface-active biomolecules with significant applications in bioremediation, particularly for the breakdown of hydrocarbon pollutants. This study investigates the isolation and characterization of biosurfactant-producing bacterial strains from oil-contaminated soils in Chennai, India, with a focus on Enterobacter cloacae. Screening assays including hemolysis, oil spreading and emulsification, identified Enterobacter cloacae as a promising candidate. Optimal production conditions: 37°C, pH 7, glucose and casein as carbon and nitrogen sources, yielded a high-performance biosurfactant. This biosurfactant facilitated the synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), confirmed by UV-visible, FTIR, SEM and XRD analyses, demonstrating antimicrobial properties. Bioremediation potential was validated by applying the biosurfactant and its AgNP composite to oil-contaminated soils, showing significant hydrocarbon degradation. Additionally, Enterobacter cloacae exhibited plant growth-promoting traits such as nitrogen fixation and indole acetic acid production. These findings suggest that biosurfactants and biosurfactant-AgNP composites are effective agents for environmental remediation and sustainable agriculture.
05 31 2025 19 24 10.25303/207rjbt019024 https://worldresearchersassociations.com/Archives/RJBT/Vol(20)2025/July%202025/Characterization%20and%20Application%20of%20Biosurfactant.aspx