Bioremediation processes for removing plutonium from the environment: a review

Abstract

Plutonium (Pu) contamination poses a significant and persistent environmental challenge due to its radiotoxicity, long half-life, and mobility in ecosystems. Traditional remediation approaches, such as soil excavation, chemical stabilization, and vitrification, are often prohibitively expensive, environmentally disruptive, and generate secondary radioactive waste. Bioremediation, an emerging and sustainable alternative, utilizes microorganisms and plants to sequester, transform, or immobilize plutonium in contaminated environments. Advances in synthetic biology, genetic engineering, and nanotechnology have enhanced the feasibility and efficiency of bioremediation strategies. This review provides an in-depth analysis of bioremediation mechanisms, challenges, and recent developments, with a focus on integrating biological, chemical, and technological innovations for effective plutonium decontamination. By addressing current knowledge gaps and highlighting future research directions, this review aims to establish bioremediation as a viable, cost-effective, and environmentally sustainable approach for nuclear waste management.