https://doi.org/10.15255/KUI.2024.014
Published: Kem. Ind. 74 (5-6) (2025) 219–234
Paper reference number: KUI-14/2024
Paper type: Review
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Biological Degradation of Cyanide, Thiocyanate, and Phenolic Compounds in Wastewater

A. Tutić, M. Vuković Domanovac, D. Kučić Grgić and M. Miloloža

Abstract

Wastewater from various industries, such as coking, mining, pharmaceutical, petroleum, etc., often contains high concentrations of cyanides, thiocyanates, and phenolic compounds, individually or in combination, making them serious sources of pollution for natural watercourses. Protecting water bodies and preserving life within them requires reducing the concentrations of these compounds to legally prescribed levels. Given the complexity of such wastewater effective treatment generally involves multiple technologies, with biological treatment being both indispensable and highly effective. Therefore, exploring the potential for biological degradation of these compounds, along with the mechanisms influencing their degradation under various environmental conditions, is crucial. This paper provides an overview of the biological degradation of toxic compounds in industrial wastewater, investigating various microorganisms and degradation techniques to ensure effective and environmentally friendly water treatment.

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Keywords

cyanide, thiocyanate, phenol, wastewater, biological degradation