Implication of Surfactants in Remediation

Abstract

The current and previous studies elucidate that commercially available surfactants that mimic the natural constitutes of invertebrates gut fluids provide the efficient method for remediation of metals and organic pollutants from contaminated solids and waters. But, there are some disadvantages to the application of surfactants for remediation such as the formation of high-viscosity emulsions, toxic and very expensive. Surfactants found in the gut fluids of deposit feeders may play the different roles in their digestive system, for example, the dissolution of food particles. Mainly, there are two approaches either the metals are assimilated or not assimilated by organisms. If the metals are assimilated in the organisms, they may be become insoluble or accumulated in a specific organ or tissue and cause harmful effects. On the other hand, if not then metals pass through the complex gut fluids composition and enter into the aquatic environment where it may possible that it becomes more toxic to the environment.