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ABSTRACT
Biochar is a porous carbonaceous material derived from organic sources, is investigated for its multifaceted role in enhancing the biodegradation process. This study optimized bioremediation process using biochar and microbial load (Aspergillius Niger and Pseudomonas aeruginosa) for remediating crude oil contaminated water The experiment investigated the influence of four process factors on bioremediation (time, crude oil dosage, microbial load, and biochar dosage. Biochar was prepared from slow pyrolysis of maize cobs at a temperature of 400oC in a muffle furnace for 1 hour. Crude oil contaminated water was simulated in 29 sample containers with each run sample having its specific conditions as specified by the Box behken design experimental data generated. Sample analysis was done at 2 weeks interval over a 6 weeks period. Biochar produced had surface area of 84.6 m2 /g, pore volume of 0.0519 cc/g, and pore size of 2.1382 nm. Evaluation of remediated crude oil polluted water showed an increase in the DO level as time passed while a decrease RHC was observed. R 2 values of 0.9799 and 0.9733 were obtained for dissolved oxygen (DO) and residual hydrocarbon content (RHC) respectively. From the numerical optimization studies carried out, a DO and RHC value of 6.85mg/L and 14.09mg/L respectively was achieved with time of 5.99 weeks, crude oil dosage of 57.15ml of 3.86g, microbial load of 14.72, and biochar dosage of 37.29g.
