Short Article
07-02-2025 | 17:26 PM
F11 Bacteria
A new study has identified Labrys portucalensis F11, which is capable of breaking down and transforming at least three types of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances.
About F11 Bacteria
- It is a Gram-negative and aerobic bacteria.
- Family: Xanthobacteraceae
- It can break down harmful chemicals known as “forever chemicals” which do not break down easily in nature.
- The bacteria support bio-augmentation in wastewater treatment & contaminated soil cleanup.
- Bio-augmentation is a technique for introducing specific microorganisms to degrade persistent pollutants in contaminated environments.
- The carbon-fluorine bond in PFAS facilitates the breakdown of toxic compounds.
About PFAS (‘Forever Chemicals’)
- Highly persistent synthetic chemicals that are resistant to grease, oil, water, and heat.
- They have one of the strongest carbon-fluorine bonds, rendering them exceptionally difficult to degrade.
- Applications: nonstick utensils, waterproof clothes, etc.
Note: Aerobic bacteria are microorganisms that can grow and live in the presence of oxygen.
