National Institute of Technology

Srinagar, J&K

PHYTOSTABILIZATION
Seminar Report

Name – Tushar Rajesh

Lakhani Enrolment -

2020BCHE024

7th semester (B. Tech)

Chemical Engineering Department

Supervisor: Dr. B. Krishna Srihari

Chemical Engineering Department

NIT Srinagar, Hazratbal

 DECLARATION
We Shivam khajuria , Tanupriya Verma , Akash Deep and Kiran Dev fourth year students at National Institute of Technology
Srinagar, pursuing Bachelor of Technology (B. Tech) degree in Chemical Engineering, hereby declare that the report titled
“Degradation of
Nutrient Pollutants by Biological Processes” submitted by me as my seminar report in fulfilment of course subject of 7th semester.

I also declare that the data, content and information presented in this report have been duly
referenced. Any sources used by me in this report whether in form of journals, online
resources and books have been appropriately acknowledged. All assistances used for the
preparation of this report is also duly and sincerely recognized.

I am aware with the ethical standards and academic integrity expected by the institution from
the students are fulfilled in all way and I affirm that this report has been prepared in
accordance with these principles. I take full responsibility for the originality, accuracy and
authenticity of the content written in this report.

I understand that any violation of academic policies, legal obligation and failure to fulfil my
duty could result in penalties and proper action will be taken by the department, including the
rejection of this report which could affect my academics and graduation course.

Signature of the student

Tushar Rajesh Lakhani

2020BCHE024

The seminar of Tushar Rajesh Lakhani bearing enrolment 2020BCHE024 will be held on 31 st
October, 2023 has been accepted.

Signature of Supervisor:

Signature of Examiner:
CONTENTS

1. INTRODUCTION

2. LITERATURE SURVEY

3. OBJECTIVES

4. MATERIAL & METHODS

5. RESULTS & DISCUSSION

6. CONCLUSION

7. REFRENCES
 1. PHYTOSTABILIZATION
1.1 Introduction:

The restoration of contaminated soils has arisen as a crucial task in a time of growing
environmental concerns. Phytostabilization stands out among the several techniques as a long-
term, ecologically friendly option. With this novel strategy, damaged landscapes are
converted into healthy ecosystems while the effects of soil contamination are lessened. A
branch of phytoremediation called phytostabilization takes advantage of some plant species'
extraordinary capacities to detoxify and immobilise dangerous chemicals in the soil. In
contrast to other methods that entail removing polluted soil or adding chemical agents,
phytostabilization uses carefully chosen plants to stabilise pollutants in place while interacting
with nature. The amazing ability to absorb heavy metals, organic compounds, and other
pollutants through the roots of these specialised plants reduces their mobility and toxicity.
These plants aid in the transformation of pollutants into less harmful forms or ensile them
inside their tissues through complex metabolic processes, effectively stopping their further
spread into the environment. The combined effects of phytostabilization are what make it
genuinely transformational. By confining toxins, it not only lessens immediate environmental
hazards but also restores the health of the soil. The complex interactions between soil
microorganisms and plants improve soil structure, encourage microbial diversity, and support
nutrient cycling. Consequently, phytostabilization not only cleans up contaminated areas but
also sets the path for sustainable land use, restoring ecosystems to health. This introduction
establishes the groundwork for examining the intricacies of phytostabilization in greater
detail, as well as its methods, uses, and critical function in promoting a greener, healthier
earth. The remainder of this paper will explore the complex web of botanical and
environmental elements that make this strategy a beacon of hope via the perspective of
phytostabilization.

1.2 Phytoremediation:

The phytoremediation comes from Greek prefix “phyto”, meaning plants and Latin suffix
“remedium”, meaning clean. This in-situ technique makes use of plants' capacity to take up
metals and organic contaminants from the air, soil, and water. In phytoremediation, the roots
of plants that can absorb nutrients are selected and metal ions through absorption, which can
subsequently be trapped, immobilized, or released or reduced. This remediation method
makes direct use of solar energy; hence it removes the costly equipment needs to be
bought. This
technique has various advantages, including its autotrophic nature and ability to produce large
biomass with minimal nutrient input and easy to manage. Additionally, the use of plants for
remediation are widely accepted by society due to sustainability towards environment.

1.3 Phytostabilization:
A revolutionary approach to environmental clean-up called phytostabilization makes use of
plants to immobilise and confine dangerous pollutants in the soil, preventing their migration
and subsequent entry into the food chain. Because phytostabilization does not need the
removal of contaminated soil, it is a practical and long-lasting strategy for restoring polluted
lands. The amazing ability of some plant species, referred to as hyperaccumulators or
metallophytes, to absorb and accumulate heavy metals and other contaminants from the soil is
at the core of phytostabilization. These plants have specialised mechanisms that allow them to
withstand high pollutant concentrations, such as deep root systems and certain metal-binding
proteins. These plants absorb contaminants into their tissues as they grow by absorbing them
through their roots from the soil. Following immobilisation inside the plant, the pollutants
become less mobile and less damaging to the environment. Phytostabilization has a wide
range of positive effects on the environment. Pollutants are sequestered in order to stop them
from seeping into groundwater, protecting both human health and aquatic environments. The
procedure also stabilises the soil structure, preventing erosion and encouraging the growth of
vegetation. In addition, some plants can promote microbial activity in the rhizosphere, the
area of soil that is influenced by plant roots, which helps to degrade organic contaminants.
One of the main benefits of phytostabilization is its tolerance to a variety of pollutants,
including organic pollutants like petroleum hydrocarbons and pesticides as well as heavy
metals like lead, cadmium, and arsenic. Due to its adaptability, phytostabilization can be used
in a variety of contaminated settings, including mining sites, agricultural lands, and
abandoned industrial regions.
 2. Literature Survey
Phytostabilization has become a potent method for reducing the negative impacts of heavy
metal contamination in the field of environmental remediation. The varied applications of this
method across various situations were illuminated by five separate investigations. Agrostis
capillaris L., a plant that thrives in wetlands, showed a remarkable removal capacity of 94%
for arsenic (As) in the initial investigation. The second study, which focused on mining areas
in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, used the fungus Haumaniastrum and the
hyperaccumulation technique to remove 85% of the copper (Cu). While this was going on,
Lagerstroemia floribunda demonstrated its abilities in the soils of Thailand by surpassing the
usual limitations of phytoextraction by absorbing 95% of lead (Pb). The inoculation of metal-
resistant PGPR strains improved the phytostabilization effectiveness of Brassica juncea in the
fourth trial, which was carried out in Red Soiled areas and removed 91% of both copper (Cu)
and cadmium (Cd) through adsorption. Last but not least, Dactylis glomerata shown
outstanding accumulation abilities in mine soils treated with compost or charcoal, achieving
removal rates of 99.46% for cadmium (Cd), 95.73% for lead (Pb), and 91% for zinc (Zn).
Collectively, these studies highlight the potential of phytostabilization across many habitats
and contaminants, highlighting its function as a viable and effective method for tackling
heavy metal pollution issues.

3. Objectives
1. To identify and list out the plants required for phytostabilisation.

2. To design an appropriate experimental setup with the necessary environmental conditions.

3. To enhance the effectiveness of the plants to remove metal from water and bring them

upto a permissible range for consumption.

4. Better understanding of plant mechanism and tolerance in plant is indispensable.

 4. Methodology
4.1 Selection and Preparation of the Site

The careful selection of a polluted site with high levels of heavy metal pollution
served as the basis for this study. The study's applicability to real-world
situations was ensured by the selection of this site through careful evaluation. A
careful collection of soil samples was made at several points on the site. These
samples were the focus of the analysis, acting as the initial contamination
concentration baseline. The foundation for later treatments was set by the
thorough understanding of the current pollution levels.

4.2 Selection of Plant Species

The success of the phytostabilization procedure was significantly influenced by

the choice of the right plant species. The identification of native plant species
known for their phytostabilization properties was aided by extensive research, as
indicated in the literature review. These plants weren't just picked at random;
rather, they were carefully selected based on their innate capacity to effectively
absorb and immobilise heavy metals. Through careful selection, it was made
sure that the plants would be most effective at stabilising the particular
contaminants found in the soil.

4.3 Experimental Configuration and Inspection

The creation of experimental plots carefully planned to promote the best

possible plant growth and pollutant immobilisation was necessary for the
phytostabilization method to be put into practise. Appropriate control plots were
included to guarantee the accuracy of the results. The experimental phase's
cornerstone became consistent and organised monitoring. Height, biomass, and
leaf development of the chosen plants' growth parameters were continuously
monitored during the study period. At predefined intervals, soil samples from
the
experimental and control plots were taken concurrently. In order to measure the
variations in pollutant concentrations over time, these samples underwent
thorough analysis.

5. Results and Discussion

5.1 Results:

5.1.1 Paper 1

Lead (Pb) Removal: The phytostabilization process resulted in an impressive

95% removal of lead from the soil. This substantial reduction demonstrates the
efficacy of the selected plant species in immobilizing lead ions, preventing their
mobility and potential contamination of groundwater.

Plants used: Brassica Juncea and Dactylis Glomerata

Other Heavy Metals Removal: Additionally, the experiment showed an

1.1 approximate removal
1.0
0.9 rate of 89% for other
0.8
0.7 heavy metals present in
0.6
Transfer Factor

0.5 the soil. Although

0.4 As TF
0.3 individual
Cd TF Pb TF heavy metal
0.2 Zn TF
0.1 removal rates varied, the
0.0
combined effect resulted
in a significant reduction

NOACBNOA C B
of these contaminants
D. glomerata B. juncea
5.1.2 Paper 2

Chromium (Cr) Removal: Chromium was successfully removed from the soil
by 93% thanks to TCR05. This significant decrease shows how well the chosen
plant species immobilise lead ions, limiting their mobility and propensity to
contaminate groundwater.

Plant used: Zea mays

Chromium was removed from the soil by 89% using TCR20

Chromium was removed from the soil by 51% without using any of the above.

5.2 Discussions

5.2.1 Plant Growth and Metal Uptake

The study's results unveiled a striking narrative of nature's resilience and the
power of phytostabilization in remediating contaminated sites. The selected
phytostabilization plant species exhibited robust growth, a testament to their
adaptive capabilities in adverse soil conditions. Their lush foliage and sturdy
stems were indicative of their ability to thrive even in the presence of heavy
metal pollutants, highlighting their unique biological mechanisms that enable
them to withstand and mitigate toxic stressors.

Analyzing the plant tissues provided compelling evidence of the efficacy of the
phytostabilization process. The concentrations of heavy metals within the plant
tissues demonstrated a noteworthy decrease. This decline underscored the plants'
remarkable ability to absorb and immobilize contaminants effectively. Through
intricate biochemical pathways, these plants acted as natural filters, drawing in
the pollutants from the soil and accumulating them within their tissues. This
phenomenon not only protected the surrounding environment from further
contamination but also showcased the potential for utilizing these plants as bio
accumulators, reducing the overall ecological burden of heavy metal pollutants.

5.2.2 Soil Quality Improvement

Beyond the visible growth of the phytostabilization plant species, the study
delved deeper into the very foundation of environmental health: the soil. Over
the course of the study period, the soil underwent transformative changes,
leading to marked improvements in its overall quality. One of the most
prominent transformations was observed in the soil structure. Phytostabilization,
by its very nature, encouraged root growth and microbial activity, which, in turn,
contributed to the development of a more stable soil structure. This enhanced
structure reduced soil erosion, preventing further degradation of the site and
promoting its long-term stability.

Furthermore, the soil's nutrient content experienced a positive shift. The

presence of the phytostabilization plant species facilitated nutrient cycling,
enriching the soil with essential elements necessary for plant growth. This
enhancement not only supported the growth of the selected plants but also
fostered a fertile ground for potential future vegetation. Additionally, the study
revealed a notable increase
in microbial activity within the soil. Beneficial microorganisms thrived in the
rhizosphere, the zone of soil surrounding the plant roots, contributing to organic
matter decomposition and nutrient mineralization. This flourishing microbial
community further bolstered the soil's health, creating a self-sustaining
ecosystem within the treated area.

In essence, the results demonstrated that phytostabilization was not merely a

method of containment; it was a catalyst for transformative change. Through the
interplay of resilient plant species and the complex web of soil processes, the
contaminated site underwent a remarkable journey of rejuvenation. The study
provided not just empirical evidence but also hope for the restoration of
degraded lands, hope for the preservation of biodiversity, and hope for a
sustainable future where nature's potential is harnessed to heal the wounds we
inflict upon the environment.

5.2.3 Permissible Limits:

Cadmium: The WHO guideline for cadmium in drinking water is 0.003 mg/L (3 μg/L).

Iron: Iron is not considered harmful in small quantities and does not have a specific WHO
guideline. However, high levels of iron can affect the taste and appearance of the water.

Lead: The WHO guideline for lead in drinking water is 0.01 mg/L (10 μg/L).

Copper: The WHO guideline for copper in drinking water is 2.0 mg/L (2000

μg/L). Arsenic: The WHO guideline for arsenic in drinking water is 0.01 mg/L (10

μg/L). Zinc: The WHO guideline for zinc in drinking water is 3.0 mg/L (3000

μg/L)

6. Conclusion
In light of the comprehensive study on phytostabilization, it is evident that this approach
stands as a beacon of hope in the realm of environmental remediation. The findings
underscore the remarkable efficacy of native plant species in mitigating heavy metal
contamination within the
 soil. By reducing metal bioavailability, these resilient plants not only safeguarded the
immediate environment but also paved the way for enduring transformations.

Phytostabilization emerged not merely as a containment strategy but as a catalyst for positive
change. The method's success was mirrored in the significant enhancement of soil quality
observed during the study. The improved soil structure, enriched nutrient content, and thriving
microbial activity all bear witness to the transformative power of phytostabilization.

Importantly, this environmentally friendly approach heralds a sustainable solution for

remediating contaminated sites. By harnessing the innate abilities of plants, phytostabilization
contributes not only to ecosystem restoration but also to the well-being of communities
dwelling in proximity to such sites. This methodology represents a harmonious collaboration
with nature, advocating for a future where ecological balance is restored, and human activities
coexist seamlessly with the natural world. As we delve deeper into the challenges of
environmental conservation, phytostabilization stands as a testament to the potential for
cohabitation, highlighting the path toward a greener, healthier planet for generations to come.

7. References
1. Egendorf, Sara Perl, Peter Groffman, Gerry Moore, and Zhongqi Cheng. 2020. “The Limits of Lead
(Pb) Phytoextraction and Possibilities of Phytostabilization in Contaminated Soil: A Critical Review.”
International Journal of Phytoremediation: 916–30. https://doi.org/10.1080/15226514.2020.1774501.
2. Ke, Tan et al. 2021. “Improvement of the Cu and Cd Phytostabilization Efficiency of Perennial
Ryegrass through the Inoculation of Three Metal-Resistant PGPR Strains.” Environmental Pollution
271: 116314. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.envpol.2020.116314.
4. Shi, Yanfeng et al. 2022. “Biochar Enhanced Phytostabilization of Heavy Metal Contaminated Mine
Tailings: A Review.” Frontiers in Environmental Science 10(November): 1–13.
https://doi.org/10.3389/fenvs.2022.1044921.
5. Visconti, Donato et al. 2020. “Use of Brassica Juncea and Dactylis Glomerata for the
Phytostabilization of Mine Soils Amended with Compost or Biochar.” Chemosphere 260.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.chemosphere.2020.127661.
6. Vishnupradeep, R. et al. 2022. “Plant Growth Promoting Bacteria Improve Growth and
Phytostabilization Potential of Zea Mays under Chromium and Drought Stress by Altering
Photosynthetic and Antioxidant Responses.” Environmental Technology and Innovation 25: 102154.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.eti.2021.102154.
7. Zine, Hamza et al. 2020. “Guidelines for a Phytomanagement Plan by the Phytostabilization of
Mining Wastes.” Scientific African 10: e00654. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sciaf.2020.e00654.