Petroleum Microbiology

(Pre-requisites: MCB 102 & either MCB 201 or MCB 202)

Historical developments in petroleum microbiology. Genesis of fossil fuels with emphasis on microbiological influence. Microbes in crude oil prospecting and recovery. Microbiology of oil drilling and corrosion of pipes and equipment. Petroleum hydrocarbons- composition and general characteristics. Acid mine drainage; Effects of oil spills on microbial ecology of seas and soils. Biodegradation and bioremediation of petroleum products. Environmental aspects of oil shale oxidation. Structures and recalcitrance of byproducts of the petroleum industry i.e. plastics, waxes, sprays, paints and oils etc. Microbial processes for recovering and upgrading petroleum fractions and hydrocarbons.