Exploration of Biosurfactant-Producing Microorganisms from Hydrocarbon-Contaminated Sites

Key Points

• This research aims to identify microorganisms capable of producing biosurfactants for industrial and environmental applications.
• Thirteen bacterial isolates were screened for biosurfactant production using drop collapse, oil displacement, and emulsification index assays.
• GS-3, identified as Bacillus spp., was selected for further biosurfactant production using 1% diesel as a carbon source.
• Biosurfactant extraction was performed via acid precipitation and solvent extraction, followed by CTAB assay for anionic characterization.
• GS-3 exhibited the highest biosurfactant activity across all assays conducted.
• Biosurfactant confirmed to be anionic with determined efficacy in enhancing oil displacement and emulsification.
• The promising properties of GS-3 suggest significant potential for applications in bioremediation efforts.