Senthil Kumar Arumugasamy

The efficiency of microbial and enzyme-based processes in wastewater valorization is strongly influenced by substrate composition and environmental conditions. This study evaluates the relationship between the physicochemical characteristics of palm oil mill effluent (POME) and its suitability for supporting microbial growth and lipolytic enzyme production. Samples were collected from multiple treatment ponds and analyzed for key parameters. The pH, temperature, and dissolved oxygen (DO) were measured in situ using standard probes, while total solids were determined gravimetrically by oven-drying at 103 – 105 °C. The POME samples exhibited acidic to near-neutral pH (4.8 - 8.0), elevated temperatures (30 – 75 °C), and low DO levels (< 2.0 mg L ⁻¹ ), indicating predominantly anaerobic conditions. Total solids (residual organic matter) remained high (976.7 - 57,400 mg L ⁻¹ ), reflecting incomplete degradation. These conditions create a selective ecological niche favoring lipolytic fungi and facultative anaerobic microorganisms. The combined effects of moderate acidity, high temperature, and substantial organic load suggest that POME is a suitable substrate for enzyme-producing microorganisms. The findings demonstrate that, beyond its conventional classification as a pollutant, POME represents a biologically active medium with potential for enzyme-based bioprocesses and resource recovery, supporting sustainable wastewater valorization within a circular bioeconomy framework.

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