Phytoremediation Potential of Ziziphus spina-christi Leaves for the Absorption and Degradation of Petroleum Hydrocarbons
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Abstract
Oil pollution is a vital environmental problem affecting soil and plants. A promising option for these purposes may be the use of plants-for example, linden (Ziziphus spina-christi)-as a mitigating tool, this research analyzes plant effectiveness in absorbing and degrading oil pollutants, evaluating their potential as active agents in rehabilitating polluted environments. It examines their efficiency in various pollutant concentrations to inform environmental cleanup strategies. During the collection of samples, the measurement of plant growth parameters was done in terms of the height of the plant, biomass accumulation, and chlorophyll content. Organic solvents were used in the extraction of the pollutants in the soil and leaves; a comparison of hydrocarbon concentrations in polluted and unpolluted soils was considered. The results showed the gradual decrease of hydrocarbons' concentration in contaminated soil, up to 40%, with an increase in concentration of pollutants in linden leaves. It provided evidence of its efficiency in adsorption and decomposition. Analysis by HPLC showed components like phenanthrene and naphthalene; thus, it validated that linden was capable of adsorbing a range of hydrocarbons, the study suggested that linden is effective in phytoremediation, reducing oil pollution through adsorption and decomposition. Its role in environmental management highlights the importance of plant applications in improving polluted soil quality and enhancing ecological restoration strategies.
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