Abstract: The effect of six surfactants (Tween80, Triton X-100, LAS, SDS, SAS, complex of SDS and dodecanol) on petroleum degradation by Phanerochaete chrysosporium in solution and soil-water system was studied. Results show that the type and concentration of surfactants, biodegradability and the existing state of petroleum contaminant all have impact on the degradation of petroleum. The degradation of petroleum by white rot fungi in both solution and soil system could be promoted by non-ionic surfactant and anionic surfactant in certain extent. In the solution system, the degradation rate of petroleum reduces with the increase of initial surfactant concentration, Tween80 surfactant at a concentration of 0.2 CMC shows the best performance, a degradation rate of 62.2%. Whereas TRITON X-100 surfactant at a concentration of 5 CMC exhibits the best performance in soil system, the degradation rate of petroleum reaches 60.17%.

Key words: surfactant, white rot fungi, petroleum, degradation