HGS E & E Meeting - Microbial Remediation is an Innovative and Environmentally Friendly Approach for Degrading Hydrocarbons

HGS March Environmental and Engineering Dinner Meeting

"Microbial Remediation is an Innovative and Environmentally Friendly Approach for Degrading Hydrocarbons" by Braden Gilbert

March 12, 2025

Location: Los Tios restaurant located at 9527 Westheimer RD, Houston.
Social 5:30 p.m., Dinner 6:30 p.m., Presentation 7:30- 9:00 p.m.
Cost: $35 Pre-registered members; $40 non-members & ALL walk-ups
To guarantee a seat, you must pre-register on the HGS website and pay with a credit card.  You may walk up and pay at the door if extra seats are available.  Please cancel by phone or email within 24 hours before the event for a refund. Online & pre-registration closes Wednesday, at 5:00 p.m.

Abstract

Microbial remediation is an innovative and environmentally friendly approach for degrading hydrocarbons, including diesel, gasoline, and persistent pollutants such as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). Hydrocarbon contamination from industrial spills, leaking underground storage tanks, and improper disposal poses significant risks to soil and groundwater quality. Traditional remediation techniques, such as chemical oxidation and physical removal, can be costly and disruptive, whereas microbial bioremediation leverages naturally occurring or engineered microorganisms to break down contaminants into non-toxic byproducts. Hydrocarbon-degrading bacteria, including Pseudomonas and Alcanivorax species, utilize diesel and gasoline as carbon sources, facilitating their biodegradation. Recent advancements have also identified specialized microbial consortia capable of degrading PFAS, a class of synthetic chemicals known for their persistence and toxicity. Research has indicated that select microbial strains can enzymatically cleave the strong carbon-fluorine bonds in PFAS, offering a promising alternative to traditional remediation methods. However, there is an additional metabolic pathway for PFAS remediation that Micro-Bac International believes it has uncovered. The optimization of microbial consortia, environmental conditions, and bioaugmentation strategies can enhance degradation efficiency, making microbial remediation a sustainable solution for hydrocarbon and PFAS contamination in soil and water.

Speaker:

Braden Gilbert , VP of Business Development & Sales, Micro-bac International

Braden Gilbert is an innovative entrepreneur and leader in the biotechnology sector. As the owner of Micro-Bac International, he has spearheaded the development of cutting-edge environmental solutions, including a groundbreaking bacterial blend capable of degrading harmful chemicals like PFAS. His leadership has positioned Micro-Bac as a global leader in microbial manufacturing, with a focus on sustainable solutions for environmental cleanup.

Braden’s recent work includes revitalizing oil wells in Mexico and addressing complex waterflood issues in Kazakhstan, showcasing his ability to apply microbial technologies on a global scale. In recognition of his exceptional contributions to the industry, Braden was honored with the 2025 IPTC Young Professional Achievement Award and led Micro-Bac to win the 2024 World Petroleum Congress Innovation and Excellence Award.

Braden recently launched a service and consultancy company called BioRemedy, which specializes in the implementation of Micro-Bac International technology.