POLYMERIC NANOCOMPOSITE AIDED BIOAUGMENTATION FOR MARINE OIL SPILLS – A REVIEW

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Year : 2026 | Volume : 14 | 03 | Page :
    By

    A. Sheela Devi,

  • V. Chithambaram,

  • M. Mary Jaculine,

  • N Saravanan,

  • A. Lokeshbabu,

  • J. Balakrishnan,

  1. Associate Professor, Department of Biotechnology, Karpaga Vinayaga College of Engineering and Technology, Tamil Nadu, India
  2. Professor, Department of Physics, Rajalakshmi Engineering College (Autonomous), Thandalam, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
  3. Professor, Department of Physics, Loyala-ICAM College of Engineering and Technology, Nungambakkalam, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
  4. Associate Professor, Department of Physics, Adhi parasakthi College of Engineering, Tamil Nadu, India
  5. Tutor, Department of Pharmacology, Sree Balaji Medical college and Hospital Chrompet, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
  6. Professor, Department of Chemistry, Sri Muthukumaran Institute of Technology,Chikkarayapuram, Mangadu, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India

Abstract

Bioaugmentation is a promising, cost-effective bioremediation technique that enhances the degradation of marine pollutants by introducing hydrocarbon-degrading microorganisms. This review explores recent advancements in the use of bioaugmentation for petroleum biodegradation in marine environments, emphasizing the integration of microbial systems with polymeric and composite materials. Innovative methods, such as the immobilization of microbial cells within biodegradable polymeric matrices (e.g., alginate, chitosan, polyvinyl alcohol), have significantly improved microbial viability, metabolic efficiency, and environmental resilience. These biopolymer carriers serve as support matrices, forming bio-functional composites that facilitate sustained and targeted biodegradation in harsh marine conditions. Nanotechnology-based enhancements, including the use of polymer-supported magnetic nanoparticles, Pickering emulsions, and responsive polymer nanofibers, have further increased oil dispersion and microbial interaction. Such materials mimic nanocomposite behavior, where the polymeric matrix acts as a delivery platform and mechanical support, improving pollutant interaction and biodegradative performance. These hybrid systems combine the selectivity of microorganisms with the structural and functional advantages of polymers, yielding advanced bio-nanocomposites for efficient oil spill remediation. The review also discusses future perspectives, such as the development of smart polymer composites for real-time sensing, controlled microbial release, and environmentally responsive degradation. By bridging microbiology, materials science, and environmental engineering, polymer-based bioaugmentation platforms offer a scalable and sustainable solution to the complex challenge of oil contamination in marine systems. This review aligns with the journal’s scope by emphasizing composite technologies in bioremediation, showcasing polymer-microbe synergies in tackling environmental pollution.

Keywords: Bioaugmentation, biodegradation, hydrocarbons, microorganisms, life below water, oil spills

How to cite this article:
A. Sheela Devi, V. Chithambaram, M. Mary Jaculine, N Saravanan, A. Lokeshbabu, J. Balakrishnan. POLYMERIC NANOCOMPOSITE AIDED BIOAUGMENTATION FOR MARINE OIL SPILLS – A REVIEW. Journal of Polymer & Composites. 2026; 14(03):-.
How to cite this URL:
A. Sheela Devi, V. Chithambaram, M. Mary Jaculine, N Saravanan, A. Lokeshbabu, J. Balakrishnan. POLYMERIC NANOCOMPOSITE AIDED BIOAUGMENTATION FOR MARINE OIL SPILLS – A REVIEW. Journal of Polymer & Composites. 2026; 14(03):-. Available from: https://journals.stmjournals.com/jopc/article=2026/view=247104


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Ahead of Print Subscription Review Article
Volume 14
03
Received 01/12/2025
Accepted 14/02/2026
Published 19/06/2026
Publication Time 200 Days
33

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