Biotransformation and degradation of 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene by microbial metabolism and their interaction

2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT) and its derivatives are nitrogen-containing aromatic compounds having chemical and thermal stability at ambient temperature and pressure. TNT has high toxicity and mutagenic activity to humans, plants and animals, thus decontamination processes are necessary. Many microorganisms are capable to bioremediate TNT such as bacteria from the genera Pseudomonas, Enterobacter, Rhodococcus, Mycobacterium, Clostridium and Desulfovibrio; fungus such as Phanerochate and Stropharia species are able to perform TNT biotransformation under aerobic and anaerobic conditions. In this work we review the state of TNT biodegradation by various routes: aerobic, anaerobic, combined, fungal, enzymatic, and bio-electrochemical. •A combined aerobic and anaerobic process efficient to open the TNT ring.•Laccase can mineralize TNT and its intermediate to higher extent.•Explosive with bacterial spores provide a self-degradation on exposure of water.•Bioelectrochemical treatment can be the efficient option for TNT degradation.