Microbial processing of volatile organics in industrial waste streams

Abstract

A strain of Pseudomonas putida has been isolated which tolerates and metabolizes toluene and p‐xylene. In our laboratory, this isolate has undergone selection and adaptation and presently is able to grow under a layer of 100% p‐xylene. From batch studies the initial rates of degradation are 1–3 mg/min/L. This strain of P. putida also tolerates the presence of a nonionic surfactant while still maintaining its metabolic activity. Preliminary testing using this isolate under chemostat conditions indicates that the potential for developing a bioprocess to treat these waste solvents may be possible.