Field Trial Demonstration of Waste Oil Bioremediation at Guyana Power & Light, Georgetown Using TERI’s Patented Oilzapper Technology

TERI successfully demonstrated the effectiveness of its patented bioremediation technology, Oilzapper, for the treatment of petroleum hydrocarbon-contaminated waste generated at the Garden Eden Power Plant of Guyana Power & Light Incorporated (GPL), Georgetown, Guyana. The field-scale pilot project was undertaken to address the environmentally sustainable disposal of waste oil and oily sludge generated from fossil fuel-based power generation facilities.

Oilzapper is a consortium of naturally occurring hydrocarbon-degrading bacteria developed by TERI through extensive research. The technology enables the biodegradation of petroleum hydrocarbons into environmentally benign end products such as carbon dioxide, water, fatty acids, and biomass, without disturbing the native ecosystem.

For the demonstration, approximately 20 gallons of waste oil were mixed with humus-rich soil to create a semi-solid matrix, followed by the application of 50 kg of Oilzapper along with nutrients. Regular tilling and moisture management were carried out to maintain optimal microbial activity.

The trial achieved significant remediation results over a period of 72 days. The initial Total Petroleum Hydrocarbon (TPH) concentration of 43,600 ppm was reduced to 4,100 ppm, representing more than 90 percent reduction in petroleum hydrocarbon content. Continuous monitoring through intermediate sampling confirmed the progressive degradation of contaminants throughout the treatment period.

The successful field demonstration highlights the capability of TERI’s Oilzapper technology to provide an eco-friendly, sustainable, and cost-effective solution for managing petroleum hydrocarbon-contaminated waste under tropical environmental conditions, thereby supporting cleaner industrial operations and environmental protection initiatives.