Biodegradation of acrylamide employing free and immobilized cells of Pseudomonas aeruginosa

A bacterial isolate that degraded acrylamide (AM) as sole carbon and nitrogen source was isolated from AM-contaminated soil samples and identified as Pseudomonas aeruginosa. When tested for the efficiency of degrading AM by monitoring acidity and ammonia release, the bacterium degraded 1–2% AM effectively with release of 7 mg ammonia l−1. Mercury and chromium inhibited AM degradation, while nickel enhanced the process at lower concentrations, e.g., 200 and 400 ppm. Free Ps. aeruginosa cells began the degradative activity only after incubation for 24 h, while immobilized cells started before 24 h. HPLC analysis of the degradation products revealed intermediate compounds indicative of degradation of AM.