Pore Structures of Oil-Contaminated, Aggregated Oil-Contaminated and Uncontaminated Soils in Relation to Microbial Activities

Abstract

Soil pore structure is one of the most important characteristics which influence the biodegradation of hydrocarbons in soil. The objective of this study was to quantify and compare the inter- and intra-aggregate pore structures of oil-contaminated, aggregated oil-contaminated and uncontaminated soils and their effects on microbial biomass and activities. The inter-aggregate and intra-aggregate porosity of the untreated oil-contaminated soil was less than that of the uncontaminated soil indicating the oil-contaminated soil was more compacted, which reduced the microbial activity. The microbial biomass and activity in the aggregated oil-contaminated soil was greater than in the untreated oil-contaminated soil indicating the aggregation process improved the physical environment for microorganisms and enhanced the biodegradation of hydrocarbons in soil.