Biodegradation of Nitriles and Cyanide

The microbial degradation of numerous compounds has been studied and the biochemical pathways and mechanisms of enzyme action have been elucidated particularly with respect to pure cultures of bacteria. This research has been extremely valuable but to date industrial application of the knowledge has been somewhat limited. However, public awareness of the environment and governmental pressure in the form of the recent “Green Bill” has stimulated industry into taking measures to reduce the discharge of compounds likely to cause environmental problems. Biodegradation can play a significant role as, when it is achievable, it is by far the most economic method of treatment for removal of pollutants from a waste effluent.