The efficiency and economic aspects of phytoremediation technology using Phalaris arundinacea L. and Brassica napus L. combined with compost and nano SiO2 fertilization for the removal of PAH's from soil

• Published in: Journal of environmental management 2019-03, Vol.234, p.311-319
• Main Authors: Włóka, Dariusz, Placek, Agnieszka, Smol, Marzena, Rorat, Agnieszka, Hutchison, Dylan, Kacprzak, Małgorzata
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Energy plants; Environmental assessment; In-situ remediation; Phytoremediation; Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs)
• ISSN: 0301-4797; 1095-8630
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2018.12.113

The paper presents an evaluation of efficiency and economic potential of the phytoremediation technology, based on the use of energy crops (P. arundinacea L. and B. Napus L.), combined with the fertilization with compost, supported by the addition of nano SiO2. The experiment was conducted in in-situ conditions, using two experimental blocks, divided according to used plant species. Each block included four types of plots with different fertilization treatments (control plots; treatment with nano SiO2; treatment with compost; treatment with mixture of compost and nano SiO2). During the studied period (three vegetation seasons), a cyclic analysis of 16 PAH's content were conducted. Furthermore, a quantitative determination of biomass production was performed as well as assessment of economic potential of different strategies. Data collected during research, shows that method based on energy crops use, due to the join effect of the dangerous pollutants removal and the production of removable energy resource, can be considered as sustainable and should be recommended for use during heavy polluted soil remediation. Moreover, it should be also noted, that the best results for both PAH's removal efficiency and biomass production, were acquired on plots with P. arundinacea L. cultivation, fertilized with mix of compost and nano SiO2. [Display omitted] •Energy crops can be used during PAH-polluted soil phytoremediation.•P.arundinace L. is more adapted to grow on heavy polluted soil than B. napus L.•SiO2 hydrophilic nano powder can temporary decrease a toxic effect of PAHs in soil.•The use of energy crops can contribute to the phytoremediation costs reduction.•The use of compost increase PAH removal efficiency during phytoremediation.