Optimisation of pH, Temperature and Carbon Nitrogen Ratio for the Degradation of m-Chlorophenol by Pseudomonas putida CP1

produced in vast quantities due to their numerous applications such as herbicides, insecticides, fungicides, solvents, hydraulic and heat transfer fluids, plasticizers, and intermediates for chemical synthesis. Because of their toxicity, bio-concentration, and persistence, the ubiquitous distribution of the halogenated compounds in the biosphere has caused public concern over the possible effects on the quality of life1. Though some chlorinated aromatic compounds are biodegradable, they are often recalcitrant and natural purification of contaminated sites seems slow because microorganisms able to degrade the contaminant are missing or that the environmental conditions e.g. temperature, redox potential, pH, and concentration of contaminant are such that degradation is not promoted. Environmental pH is the most important factor affecting chlorophenol adsorption and mobility. Soil organic content is another important factor affecting chlorophenol mobility2.